Sports
Black Stars shine bright with dominant win over Madagascar in World Cup qualifier
Thomas Partey scored twice, once in each half, while Mohammed Kudus ended his goal drought, as Ghana defeated Madagascar 3-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I qualifier on Monday.
Seeking to solidify their lead, the Black Stars dominated the game, scoring three goals to secure a convincing win.
Coach Otto Addo made two changes to the starting lineup that thrashed Chad 5-0 on Friday, bringing in Francis Abu and Jerome Opoku in place of Ernest Nuamah and Inaki Williams.
Ghana asserted their control from the outset, dictating the pace and dominating possession.
Thomas Partey opened the scoring in the 12th minute, heading home a delightful Jordan Ayew free kick.
After the break, Madagascar made several substitutions, introducing fresh legs in an attempt to alter the game’s dynamics.
However, Ghana remained resolute. Thomas Partey scored his second goal in the 54th minute, courtesy of another impressive Jordan Ayew corner kick.
Mohammed Kudus added Ghana’s third goal in the 59th minute, providing a comfortable cushion. The West Ham United ace coolly slotted home after being put through by Jordan Ayew.
As the game progressed, Coach Addo made several substitutions, bringing on Ernest Nuamah, Razak Simpson, and Inaki Williams for Francis Abu, Mohammed Kudus, and Antoine Semenyo.
Gideon Mensah, who had a stellar game in the wingback position, was replaced by Ebenezer Annan, while Jonas Adjetey came on for Jerome Opoku.
Throughout the match, Ghana’s attacking trio Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus posed significant problems for Madagascar’s defense, creating scoring opportunities aplenty.
Ghana’s win solidifies their position at the top of Group I with 15 points. Madagascar has 10 points from five matches, with three wins, one draw, and one loss.
Ghana has scored 12 goals in the qualification group stage, averaging 2.40 goals per match.
The management of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has assured its supporters that steps are being taken to appoint a substantive head coach following the team’s recent poor performances.
In a statement issued by the club’s Communications Director, Sarfo Duku Esq., the board acknowledged concerns raised by fans over the absence of a permanent coach and the team’s current form.
He said the club understands the high expectations that come with representing Asante Kotoko and admitted that recent results have been disappointing.
“The Board is actively working to appoint a competent substantive head coach whose philosophy aligns with the long-term ambitions of the club,” he stated.
Mr. Duku explained that the club is taking its time to ensure the right candidate is selected, adding that management remains committed to restoring the team to its expected standards.
He apologised to supporters for the team’s recent performances and assured them that decisive steps are being taken to improve results.
In the meantime, he called on fans to remain loyal and continue supporting the team in the remaining matches of the season.
Asante Kotoko, one of Ghana’s most successful football clubs, has faced increasing pressure from supporters following a string of poor results in recent games.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Sports journalist, Dan Kwaku Yeboah has expressed mixed reactions to the decision by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to part ways with former Black Stars coach Otto Addo, describing it as correct but poorly timed.
Speaking on the development with ghanaiantimes.com.gh ‘s Edem Mensah-Tsotorme, he explained that although the decision to remove Otto Addo may be justified, the timing could affect the team’s preparation for the upcoming World Cup.
He noted that the newly appointed coach has only a few weeks to work with the team before the tournament begins, making it difficult to make any significant impact.
According to him, the team has just two friendly matches scheduled in May ahead of the competition, leaving a very short period between those games and the start of the World Cup.
He stressed that it would be unrealistic for any coach to fully understand the squad and implement effective strategies within such a limited time.
Dan Kwaku Yeboah urged Ghanaians to manage their expectations, warning that expecting outstanding performance under the circumstances could lead to disappointment.
He added that football can be unpredictable, and while the team could still perform well, fans should remain cautious in their hopes.
The astute sports journalist concluded that if the team performs beyond expectations, it would be a welcome outcome, but supporters should not put too much pressure on the new coach and players.
By: Jacob Aggrey
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