2026 World Cup Qualifying: Ghana Faces Mali with Top Spot up for Grabs

The Black Stars are set to target three points when they face Mali in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Accra Sports Stadium today at 7 pm.

Ghana presently leads Group I with 16 points from seven matches, underscoring their strong position in the qualification phase.

Maintaining this lead is crucial as the team pushes to secure a spot in the World Cup. Under the leadership of head coach Otto Addo, Ghana has achieved a mixed yet predominantly positive set of results in the qualifiers, with five wins, one draw, and one loss.

The team’s recent 3-0 victory over Madagascar showcased their attacking prowess, with midfielder Thomas Partey scoring twice and forward Mohammed Kudus adding one, thereby solidifying Ghana’s position at the top of the group.

However, Ghana’s momentum was halted by a late equalizer from Chad in their last game, thereby denying them a full three points and tightening the group standings ahead of the pivotal Mali encounter.

This draw has increased the pressure on the Black Stars to perform strongly at home to avoid any slip-ups that could favor their rivals.

The Black Stars have already gained the upper hand over Mali during this qualification campaign, securing a 2-1 away victory in the first round of matches.

That win will give the team confidence as they prepare to face the West African rivals again on home soil, with both teams eager to strengthen their chances of World Cup qualification.

A win today would put Ghana in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, keeping the hopes of the nation alive as they chase another appearance on football’s biggest stage.