Ghana beat Somalia to revive Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign

Ghana claimed their first victory in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign by beating 200th-ranked Somalia 2-0 on Thursday.

The Black Stars had opened Group C with defeats by Cote d’Ivoire and The Gambia, losing 2-0 and 4-2 respectively. Their success at the Essipong Stadium in Sekondi-Takoradi was therefore vital as they looked to recover from a difficult start.

Despite facing one of the lowest-ranked sides in the FIFA world rankings, Ghana had to wait before turning their control into goals. The match was played in south-western Ghana, close to the border with Cote d’Ivoire.

Ghana were handed an opportunity to take the lead in the 13th minute when Alidu Seidu was fouled inside the penalty area. However, Jordan Ayew was unable to convert from the spot, with the Somalia goalkeeper keeping out his effort.

The hosts eventually broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. Jonas Adjetey headed in after Mohammed Salisu, the Monaco defender, supplied the assist from a corner to make it 1-0 in the 45th minute.

Ghana doubled their advantage shortly after the hour mark. Mohammed Kudus released Felix Afena-Gyan, who finished the move in the 62nd minute to give the hosts a two-goal cushion.

The result moves Ghana off the bottom of Group C and gives them three points from their opening three matches. They are provisionally three points behind Cote d’Ivoire and The Gambia, who each have six points before facing one another in Bouake on Thursday evening.

A draw between the two group leaders would leave the section more tightly contested and offer Ghana a further opportunity to close the gap. The Black Stars will return to action on Monday, when they face Somalia again at the same venue.

Kim Lars Bjorkegren, who normally manages the Ghana women’s national team, took temporary charge of the men’s side last month after Carlos Queiroz was dismissed. His interim team responded to the early setbacks with a clean sheet and a much-needed win.

Ghana team against Somalia

Romain Lantheaume