World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Ayew’s Dramatic Late Strike Lifts Ghana Past Mali in Bamako

Jordan Ayew came off the bench to score a dramatic winner for Ghana as they beat Mali in Bamako on Thursday evening.

The Black Stars secured a 2-1 victory over the Eagles, moving joint-top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers with their first win in six games.

Ernest Nuamah equalized for Ghana after halftime, and Jordan Ayew clinched the win with a late goal in added time.

Mali began the match strongly, seeking an early goal, but Lawrence Ati-Zigi made several outstanding saves to keep the Eagles at bay. The goalkeeper made a crucial save in the fifth minute from a left-footed shot by a Malian attacker and deflected an effort from a corner.

Ghana’s first shot came in the 16th minute when Mohammed Kudus’ attempt went over the bar. The Black Stars gradually gained momentum, creating more opportunities, though Kudus missed another shot wide before Antoine Semenyo’s shot across goal went untouched.

Just when the game seemed to be heading for a draw at the break, Mali found the opener.

Kamory Doubia made contact with the ball after it deflected off Alexander Djiku from his earlier strike to give Mali the lead in added minutes.

The game went into break with the Eagles in the lead.

The Black Stars almost got an equaliser just after the recess but Antoine Semenyo couldn’t get enough of Tariq Lamptey’s low cross.

Ernest Nuamah could not be denied in the 58th minute as he headed home Salis Abdul Samed’s brilliant cross, bringing Ghana level.

Thomas Partey had a golden opportunity to secure the win for Otto Addo’s side just before added time, but the Arsenal midfielder’s one-on-one effort was saved by the Malian goalkeeper.

In the 58th minute, Ernest Nuamah skillfully headed in Salis Abdul Samed’s perfect cross to equalize for Ghana.

Thomas Partey nearly clinched the victory for Otto Addo’s side just before added time, but the Malian goalkeeper saved the Arsenal midfielder’s one-on-one effort