2026 WCQ: Ghana thumps CAR 5-0 to maintain lead in Group I
By Victor Kwawu
Ghana’s 2026 World Cup hopes remain on track after a dominant 5-0 win over the Central African Republic at Stade d’Honneur in Meknes.
Goals from Mohammed Salisu, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana secured the four-time AFCON champions another decisive victory, as they aim for a record fifth World Cup appearance. Ghana previously qualified in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022.
The Central African Republic, bottom of Group I with five points and only ahead of Chad, struggled to contain Ghana’s superior quality throughout the match.
The win takes Ghana to 22 points, restoring their three-point lead at the top of Group I ahead of Sunday’s clash against a wounded Comoros, who were beaten 2-0 by second-place Madagascar at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Ivory Coast.
Only the nine group winners in African qualifying are guaranteed a spot at next year’s tournament in Mexico, Canada, and the USA. The four best-ranked runners-up will enter continental play-offs.
