The clash between Ghana and Mali in the Africa World Championship Qualifiers Round 8 ended with Ghana edging past Mali 1-0 in a tense and competitive fixture. This crucial victory gives Ghana a significant boost towards qualifying for the World Cup, while Mali will rue the missed opportunities.
🔑 Match Summary
- Final Score: Ghana 1–0 Mali
- Venue: Africa World Cup Qualifiers, Round 8
- Goal Scorer:
- 49’ Alexander Djiku (Assist: Jordan Ayew)
The match remained goalless at halftime, with both sides showing defensive resilience. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Djiku powered home a header from Ayew’s delivery, sending Ghanaian fans into wild celebrations.
Mali responded with several substitutions, introducing Nene, Diarra, Sangare, and Sylla in search of an equalizer, but Ghana’s compact defense and disciplined midfield play ensured the clean sheet was preserved.
⚽ First Half: A Tactical Battle
The opening 45 minutes saw a midfield-dominated contest with few clear chances. Ghana’s defense, led by Djiku, managed to keep Mali’s attacking duo Sinayoko and Coulibaly at bay. The only notable incident came at the 26th minute when Adjetey J. picked up a yellow card after a rash challenge.
⚽ Second Half: Djiku the Hero
Just four minutes after the restart, Ghana seized the initiative:
- 49’ Goal (1-0): Djiku rose highest to meet Ayew’s cross, giving Ghana the lead.
Mali tried to respond quickly with substitutions, introducing fresh attacking legs, but Ghana’s tactical switches were just as effective:
- 72’ Sulemana replaced Semenyo to add pace.
- 80’ Paintsil and Williams came on for Kudus and Ayew, offering renewed energy.
- 87’ Partey and Opoku entered to tighten the midfield and defense.
Despite late pressure from Mali, Ghana’s game management proved decisive.
📊 Key Match Stats
- Possession: Ghana 47% – Mali 53%
- Shots on Target: Ghana 3 – Mali 2
- Corners: Ghana 5 – Mali 4
- Fouls: Ghana 13 – Mali 15
The numbers reflect a tightly contested battle, with Ghana capitalizing on its decisive moment.
👥 Lineups
Ghana: Djiku, Ayew, Kudus, Sulemana, Semenyo, Paintsil, Williams, Partey, Opoku, Adjetey
Mali: Doucoure, Coulibaly, Diarra, Nene, Sangare, Sinayoko, Camara, Dante, Sylla
Both managers used their benches effectively, but Ghana’s tactical discipline and clinical finishing gave them the edge.
🎯 Conclusion
Ghana’s 1-0 win over Mali could prove pivotal in their qualification journey. Djiku’s goal and Ayew’s crucial assist highlighted the Black Stars’ experience in big games. Mali fought hard but lacked the killer instinct in the final third.
As the qualifiers progress, Ghana strengthens its claim as one of Africa’s football powerhouses, while Mali faces an uphill battle to keep its hopes alive.
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