Ghana kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a crucial home win against Madagascar at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday, November 17.
In a nail-biting encounter, Inaki Williams emerged as the hero for Chris Hughton’s side, securing a late victory with a powerful header in the 95th minute, ultimately giving Ghana a vital three points as the game concluded with a 1-0 scoreline.
Hughton’s team had to be patient until the 25th minute to record their first shot on target, with Jordan Ayew forcing a save from the goalkeeper. Despite this, the away team displayed dominance in various aspects during the first half, although they failed to break the deadlock.
The second half witnessed the introduction of Majeed Ashimeru and Denis Odoi, injecting energy into the team’s decision-making in the final third. Kudus attempted a shot from 20 yards out, parried away by the goalkeeper. Inaki Williams appeared to have scored the opening goal, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
After Antoine Semenyo was replaced by Ernest Nuamah in the 72nd minute, the latter played a significant role in Ghana’s attacking plays. Ashimeru and Nuamah both had attempts denied by the Madagascar goalkeeper in quick succession.
In the 81st minute, the Barea came close to breaking the deadlock, with a forward’s header hitting the upright and the rebound narrowly missing the post.
Persistently pushing for a winning goal, Ghana’s efforts paid off in the dying moments of the game. Gideon Mensah delivered a precision cross from the left flank, finding Inaki Williams, who clinically powered a header past the goalkeeper, securing the long-awaited victory for Ghana.