The Black Stars of Ghana claimed a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Mali in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday night, courtesy of a decisive strike from defender Alexander Djiku.

Djiku’s well-taken finish in the 49th minute was the difference between the two sides, as Ghana tightened their hold on Group I with 19 points — three clear of closest challengers Madagascar.

The encounter began at a frenetic pace, with Mali dictating the early exchanges. The Eagles dominated possession and pressed relentlessly through midfield, forcing Kwasi Sibo and Thomas Partey to work tirelessly in shielding the defence. Djiku, commanding at the back, ensured the Ghanaian rearguard held firm under sustained pressure.

Despite Mali’s control of the ball, Ghana fashioned the better chances in the first half. In the 25th minute, Caleb Yerenkyi combined brilliantly with Mohammed Kudus, but the move broke down at the final hurdle. Just before halftime, Kudus delivered a pinpoint cross to Antoine Semenyo, who missed a golden opportunity from close range, leaving the scoreline goalless at the interval.

The breakthrough came soon after the restart. In the 47th minute, Yerenkyi launched a long ball that unsettled the Malian defence, forcing a mistake from the goalkeeper. From the resulting corner, Jordan Ayew whipped in a precise delivery, and Djiku rose above his marker to head home, sparking wild celebrations from the home fans.

Ghana grew in confidence after taking the lead. Kudus produced a moment of magic in the 55th minute, gliding past three defenders before seeing his powerful strike blocked. Substitute Kamaldeen Sulemana added fresh energy on the wing and twice threatened to extend the advantage — first when he nearly played Inaki Williams through on goal, and later when he missed a clear-cut chance himself.

Mali, however, continued to pose a threat and mounted heavy pressure in the closing stages. Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was called into action on multiple occasions, showing safe hands to keep the visitors at bay and preserve Ghana’s slender advantage.

In the end, Djiku’s solitary goal was enough to hand Otto Addo’s men all three points. The victory not only consolidates Ghana’s position at the summit of Group I but also moves the Black Stars a step closer to securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.