Jordan Ayew stole the headlines in Kumasi with an impressive performance scoring a hat-trick to inspire Ghana to a thrilling 4-3 victory at the Baba Yara Stadium in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Central African Republic (CAR).
The 32-year-old scored from the spot in the sixth minute, a header from Gideon Mensah’s cross in the 60th minute. And it cemented the victory after Issahaku’s strike in the 69th minute despite Loius Mafouta’s hatrick for the away side.
The win has sent Ghana to the top of Group I awaiting the results of other fixtures in the group. Ghana, now have nine points with Madagascar and Comoros following closely with six points each.
Ghana went into the game fresh off a win over Mali last Thursday. It was determined to secure another in the qualifiers. They aim for a fifth World Cup appearance.
Jordan Ayew steals show
Despite starting on the front foot, Jordan Ayew’s penalty was quickly canceled in the 11th minute before Mafouta scored. Again before the break.
The tactical nous of Otto Addo came to play once more as the Kamaldeen. Fatawu Issahaku’s positional switch bore fruits.
However, the concerns lay within the defensive lineup. Ghana failed to do a decent job on the attack of the Wild Beast.
Jordan Ayew’s hat-trick is his second for the Black Stars. Scoring one in 2014 during Ghana’s pre-World Cup friendly against South Korea.
THe win also means Ghana extends its dominance at the Baba Yara Stadium having last lost there 24 years ago.