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Ghana belatedly kick-started their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 home victory against Somalia.
Qualifying Campaign Struggles and Coaching Change
The Black Stars had suffered defeats in their opening two Group C matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia. These losses resulted in the departure of coach Carlos Queiroz by mutual consent.
Ghana women’s team coach Kim Bjorkegren took interim charge for the double-header against the Ocean Stars. The West African team faced the risk of missing a second consecutive edition of the Afcon finals.
Match Action and Goals
The hosts earned an early opportunity to take the lead in Sekondi-Takoradi after Alidu Seidu was fouled inside the penalty area. However, Jordan Ayew failed to convert the 14th-minute spot-kick, as Somalia goalkeeper Ibrahim Hussein made the save.
Ghana eventually broke the deadlock during first-half stoppage time. Mohammed Kudus delivered a deep corner that Mohammed Salisu headed back across the goal, allowing Jonas Adjetey to finish from six yards out.
Felix Afena-Gyan extended the Black Stars’ lead shortly after the hour mark. His shot from inside the box slipped under Hussein and crossed the goal line.
Group Standings and Upcoming Fixtures
The victory leaves the four-time continental champions trailing three points behind Ivory Coast and The Gambia, who are scheduled to play each other in Bouake at 19:00 GMT.
Cameroon, DR Congo, and Senegal are also scheduled to play among seven other Afcon 2027 qualifying matches on Thursday.
