The Black Stars of Ghana have breathed new life into their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after securing a 2-0 victory over Somalia in their third Group C encounter at the Essipong Sports Stadium in Sekondi-Takoradi.
Ghana went into Thursday’s encounter under pressure following consecutive defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia in their opening two matches, leaving them without a point and in need of a positive response to keep their qualification ambitions alive.
With interim head coach Kim Lars Björkegren taking charge, the Black Stars delivered the much-needed result, scoring once in each half to claim their first three points of the campaign.
The hosts had an early opportunity to take the lead after Alidu Seidu was brought down inside the penalty area, earning Ghana a spot kick. However, captain Jordan Ayew failed to convert, with his effort saved by the Somali goalkeeper.
Despite the setback, Ghana continued to push forward in search of an opener, with Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey helping to bring greater control and creativity to the team’s play.
Their persistence finally paid off in first-half stoppage time when Jonas Adjetey rose highest to connect with a delivery into the box, directing his header into the net to give Ghana a 1-0 advantage heading into the break.
The Black Stars maintained their attacking approach after the restart and came close to extending their lead through Mohammed Salisu, whose header narrowly missed the target.
Ghana eventually found their second goal in the 62nd minute through Felix Afena Gyan. The forward finished off a well constructed attacking move after receiving a pass from Mohammed Kudus, who played a key role in creating the opportunity.
The goal gave the Black Stars some breathing space and put them in a strong position to see out the contest.
The encounter also provided a special moment for Daniel-Kofi Kyereh, who made his long-awaited return to the national team after an absence of almost four years. The midfielder came on as a second half substitute, marking his first appearance for Ghana since the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Kyereh nearly capped his return with a goal when he unleashed an effort towards goal in the closing stages, but the Somali goalkeeper was on hand to make the save.
Somalia struggled to find a way back into the contest as Ghana remained in control and managed their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory represents an important turning point for the Black Stars, who had faced mounting pressure following their disappointing start to the qualifiers. It also marks a winning start to competitive action for Björkegren as interim head coach.
Ghana will now turn their attention to the return fixture against Somalia, scheduled for Monday, November 16, at the same venue, with another victory offering an opportunity to strengthen their position in Group C.
For the four-time African champions, Thursday’s result is more than just three points. It is an opportunity to rebuild confidence, restore belief and get their journey towards the 2027 AFCON back on track.
Story By Alhassan Abdullah
