2026 Africa World Cup qualifiers: Ghana knocks out Mali and moves closer to qualification | OneFootball

Alexander Djiku secures victory for the Black Stars and mathematically eliminates the Eagles from the race

2026 Africa World Cup qualifiers / Ghana 1-0 Mali / Photo : @GhanaBlackstars

Ghana claimed victory over Mali on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium (1-0). Alexander Djiku netted the only goal of the match. This win propels the Black Stars a giant step closer to direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

The Black Stars have taken a decisive step in their qualification campaign. Facing a Malian side desperate for points, Ghana seized the advantage shortly after halftime with Alexander Djiku's finish from a corner (49th minute). That goal proved enough to separate the sides in a tense encounter, characterized by high physical intensity and few clear-cut chances.

Mali eliminated from World Cup contention

This defeat deals a fatal blow to Mali's World Cup ambitions. Tom Saintfiet's men now sit fourth in Group I with just 12 points after eight qualifying matches. The seven-point gap to group leaders Ghana makes any hope of direct qualification mathematically impossible for the Eagles. Nene Dorgeles and his teammates will now have to watch other groups and hope for a spot among the four best runners-up to reach the continental playoffs.

Black Stars in a commanding position

With this victory, Ghana consolidates its lead atop Group I with 19 points. The Black Stars now enjoy a comfortable cushion, allowing them to approach the 9th and 10th matchdays with confidence as they pursue direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.