Watch Black Stars Land in Accra With 1-1 Draw Behind Them and Pressure Ahead

• The Black Stars have returned to Accra following a frustrating 1-1 draw against Chad in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
• Jordan Ayew’s early goal was canceled out by a late deflected equalizer, leaving Ghana with a single point.
• The team now shifts focus to a crucial home fixture against Mali on September 8, where a win could solidify their lead in Group I.

The Black Stars touched down at Kotoka International Airport on Thursday evening, their faces telling the story of a match that slipped through their fingers. After dominating early and taking the lead through Jordan Ayew’s sixth goal of the qualifiers, Ghana was stunned in the dying moments by a deflected strike from Chad’s Celestine Ecua — ending the game 1-1.

The draw, played out over 97 minutes at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno in N’Djamena, has left fans frustrated and pundits questioning the team’s tactical discipline. Coach Otto Addo admitted post-match that the performance fell short of expectations, calling it a “missed opportunity”.

Despite the setback, Ghana remains top of Group I with 16 points. But with Mali and Madagascar close behind, the margin for error is shrinking. The team now turns its attention to a high-stakes clash against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8 — a fixture that could define their qualification hopes.

The return to Accra was quiet, with players showing visible signs of disappointment. Training resumes immediately, and the mood in camp is expected to be intense. Ghana beat Mali 2-1 in Bamako last year, but the Eagles are resurgent and hungry for revenge.

With three matches left in the qualifiers, including two at home, the Black Stars still control their destiny. But they’ll need more than early goals — they’ll need composure, grit, and a finish that matches their start.

NewsandVibes.com