Ghana’s hopes of tightening their grip at the top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers were dealt a blow after they were held to a 1-1 draw by already-eliminated Chad on Thursday in N’Djamena.
The Black Stars, who thrashed Chad 5-0 in the reverse fixture, delivered a far less convincing display this time and were punished late in the game.
For much of the match, Otto Addo’s side appeared on course for a routine victory after taking an early lead through Leicester City striker Jordan Ayew.
In the 17th minute, Tottenham midfielder Mohammed Kudus, one of Africa’s most high-profile signings in the 2025 transfer window, created the opener with a fine move down the right flank before providing a precise pass for Ayew, who tapped home from close range.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Ghana failed to extend their lead. Caleb Yirenkyi spurned two promising opportunities, while Antoine Semenyo also failed to convert.
Those missed chances proved costly as Chad, already out of contention for qualification, showed resilience and grew into the game.
In the 89th minute, Chadian-Ivorian forward Ecua Célestin, making his debut for the national team, capitalised on a lapse in concentration to fire a sharp strike past the Ghanaian goalkeeper, earning Chad a dramatic equaliser and one of the most memorable results in their history.
The late setback leaves Ghana vulnerable at the top of the table. A victory for Comoros against Mali later on Thursday would cut the Black Stars’ lead to just one point, while Madagascar could move within three points if they beat the Central African Republic.
The result also raises questions over Ghana’s preparation ahead of their crucial clash with Mali in Accra on Monday.
For Chad, the draw was a moment of pride amid a difficult period for the team, which has faced significant internal challenges and the withdrawal of several senior players in recent months.
Under coach Raoul Savoy, the Sao delivered a spirited display that frustrated their more illustrious opponents and earned a deserved share of the spoils.
Ghana, meanwhile, will view the draw as a wasted opportunity to strengthen their position in Group I. Their inability to put the game to bed after taking an early lead highlighted missed chances and defensive lapses, issues Addo will be keen to address before their meeting with Mali.
The Black Stars remain in first place but risk losing their cushion at the summit, adding pressure to an already challenging qualifying campaign.
Thursday’s result serves as a stark reminder that even teams already eliminated from contention can derail the ambitions of top contenders.
