2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus score as dominant Ghana hammer Madagascar to take control of Group I

Ghana’s Black Stars continued their impressive form in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a commanding 3-0 victory over Madagascar on Monday night.

The four-time African champions delivered another strong performance at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium to maintain their position at the top of Group I.

Head coach Otto Addo made two changes to his starting lineup, introducing Francis Abu and Jerome Opoku, while Inaki Williams and Ernest Nuamah started on the bench.

The Black Stars started brightly, winning a free-kick in the 5th minute after Antoine Semenyo was brought down. However, Mohammed Salisu was unable to capitalize on Jordan Ayew’s delivery. Ghana’s early dominance paid off in the 10th minute when Thomas Partey rose highest to head home a well-placed free-kick from Ayew, marking his 14th international goal in his 51st appearance.

Madagascar nearly responded two minutes later but failed to convert their chance. Ghana, fresh off a resounding 5-0 victory against Chad, continued to press forward, with Mohammed Kudus testing the opposing goalkeeper with a powerful strike.

The home side looked threatening in the 24th minute but struggled to break through Ghana’s solid defense. The Black Stars came close to doubling their lead in the 28th minute when Semenyo squared a perfect pass to Kudus, who narrowly missed the connection. Minutes later, Madagascar forced a corner but could not capitalize.

Just before halftime, Kudus was brought down inside the box, but the referee waved play on, ruling it as a goal kick. Ghana maintained their advantage, heading into the break with a 1-0 lead.

Ghana resumed the second half in control and soon extended their lead. In the 53rd minute, Partey grabbed his second goal of the night, connecting beautifully with Ayew’s corner to make it 2-0. Moments later, Kudus sealed the victory with a well-taken goal, putting Ghana firmly in command at 3-0.

Otto Addo’s side continued to dominate, dictating the tempo of the game while keeping Madagascar at bay. With 20 minutes left, Inaki Williams replaced Semenyo in attack. The hosts launched a counterattack in search of a consolation goal, but goalkeeper Benjamin Asare produced a crucial save to keep Ghana’s clean sheet intact.

As the game entered its final 10 minutes, Otto Addo made further substitutions, bringing on Ernest Nuamah, Razak Simpson, and Ebenezer Annan for Kudus, Gideon Mensah, and Francis Abu. Later, Jonas Adjetey replaced Jerome Opoku, who was forced off with a cramp.

Despite late pressure from Madagascar, Ghana’s defense held firm, securing a well-deserved 3-0 victory. With this win, the Black Stars sit comfortably at the top of Group I with 15 points, while Madagascar remains second with 10 points.

• What’s Next for Ghana?

After back-to-back convincing wins over Chad and Madagascar, the Black Stars will resume their World Cup qualifying campaign in September. They will face Chad away before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium as they push for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.