Spain-based forward Inaki Williams saves Black Stars blushes with a last-gasp header to hand Ghana their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Madagascar on Friday evening.
The game started on a very slow pace with the visitors showing early intentions with great display in the early exchanges of the match at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Ghana created few chances in the first 45 minutes of the match and failed to manage a single shot on target against the away team with their goalkeeper virtually being on a holiday.
At the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, the Black Stars initially struggled against Madagascar, prompting Coach Chris Hughton to make crucial substitutions at halftime.
Nonetheless, the away team remained resolute at the back and gave Ghana no chances in front of goal despite the enormous amount of efforts from the Stars in the second half of the match.
Ghana came close to scoring when Kudus Mohammed’s effort was surprisingly saved by the away team’s goalkeeper who was called into actions and responded very well with a brilliant save.
Inaki Williams thought he had broken the deadlock when he poached a lose ball into the back of the net only for the goal to be chalked off for offside despite a deflection on its way before he touched the ball.
Majeed Ashimeru, the midfield-gem who changed the face of the game came close twice to break the deadlock but both efforts was excellent saved by the goal with his other effort going over the crossbar.
Despite continued challenges, Ghana gained momentum with late-game contributions from youngster Ernest Nuamah, whose skills and a well-timed cross led to Inaki Williams’ decisive header in injury time, securing victory.
Now, having triumphed over Madagascar, Ghana sets its sights on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Comoros.
