The Black Stars of Ghana were left frustrated after conceding a late equalizer against Chad in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash on Thursday evening. The result leaves Ghana’s qualification hopes hanging in the balance as they dropped valuable points against one of the group’s underdogs.
Early Lead for Ghana
Ghana began the match strongly, dictating possession and putting the hosts under constant pressure. Their efforts paid off in the 17th minute when Mohammed Kudus weaved past his marker and sent in a low cross that was neatly finished by Jordan Ayew. The Crystal Palace forward’s goal marked his sixth strike of the qualifiers, further cementing his role as one of Ghana’s most reliable scorers.
With the lead secured, Ghana continued to dominate proceedings but failed to capitalize on their territorial advantage. Several half-chances fell to Inaki Williams and Kudus, but poor finishing and resolute defending from Chad kept the scoreline at 1–0.
Chad’s Dogged Resistance
While many expected Ghana to cruise past Chad, the hosts proved stubborn and disciplined. They maintained a compact defensive shape, frustrating the Black Stars and limiting them to long-range efforts. The Chadian goalkeeper pulled off a string of vital saves to deny Kudus and Thomas Partey, ensuring his side stayed within touching distance.
Ghana looked comfortable as the second half progressed, but their failure to kill off the game would prove costly.
Late Equalizer Stuns Ghana
In the 89th minute, the stadium erupted when Célestin Ecua produced a moment of brilliance to bring Chad level. Collecting the ball on the edge of the box, Ecua dribbled past two defenders before unleashing a low shot that slipped past Ghana’s goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.
The late strike not only earned Chad their first point of the qualifying campaign but also denied Ghana what seemed like a routine victory.
Reaction and Implications
Ghana’s head coach expressed disappointment after the match, acknowledging that his side lacked the cutting edge to secure all three points. “We controlled the game but failed to make our chances count. At this level, every detail matters, and Chad punished us in the end,” he said.
For Ghana, the draw means they remain top contenders in the group, but the margin for error has now narrowed. With stronger opponents still to face, the Black Stars will need sharper finishing and greater concentration to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Chad, meanwhile, celebrated the result like a victory. The point boosts their morale and gives them confidence heading into the remaining fixtures.
Final Score
Chad 1–1 Ghana
- Jordan Ayew (17’) [GHA]
- Célestin Ecua (89’) [CHA]