Both Comoros and Ghana are aiming for a second consecutive World Cup qualifying win as they face off in Moroni on Tuesday.
Match preview:
Comoros, after their historic victory against Central African Republic, believe they can challenge Ghana. Despite scoring two own goals, Comoros came from behind to secure a 4-2 win, marking their first-ever victory in World Cup qualifying. The East African islanders made their Africa Cup of Nations debut in Cameroon last year, defeating Ghana in the process, although they were eliminated by the hosts in the knockout stage.
For Ghana, the defeat to Comoros in the AFCON was a low point in their history, exiting the group stage for the first time since 2006. Head coach Chris Hughton, in charge since March, secured a narrow 1-0 win against Madagascar in the opening World Cup qualifier. While the performance wasn’t flawless, Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams secured the victory in injury time.
Ghana’s strong World Cup qualification history makes them favorites, but Comoros, led by Younes Zerdouk, aims to maintain their top position in Group I.
Comoros World Cup Qualifying – Africa form: W
Comoros form (all competitions): W L L D W W
Ghana World Cup Qualifying – Africa form: W
Ghana form (all competitions): D W W L L W
Team News:
Comoros is likely to field the same winning team that defeated CAR, with forward Myziane Maolida, who scored on his international debut, retaining his place. Coach Zerdouk used five substitutes in the previous game, showcasing confidence in the developing squad.
Ghana will miss Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey due to a groin injury, with Mohammed Kudus playing in a slightly deeper midfield role against Madagascar. Despite a relatively modest performance, Hughton may stick with the same group, including Premier League stars Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo in the attack.
Comoros possible starting lineup: Boina; Bakari, Zahary, M’Dahoma, Abdallah; Bourhane, Selemani, M’Changama; Youssouf, Maolida, Ahamada
Ghana possible starting lineup: Ofori; Seidu, Opoku, Adams, Mensah; Samed, Baba, Kudus; Ayew, Williams, Semenyo
