By Simon Asare, GNA
Accra, Nov. 12, GNA – Ghana boosted their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 2-0 victory over Somalia in their Group qualifying match at the Essipong Sports Stadium on Thursday.
The Black Stars, who entered the match without a point after defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, secured a much-needed win through goals from defender Jonas Adjetey and striker Felix Afena-Gyan.
Head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren handed Mohammed Kudus his first Black Stars appearance of 2026, while captain Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey and Mohammed Salisu also returned to the starting line-up as Ghana sought to revive its campaign.
Ghana started the game brightly and nearly took the lead in the 14th minute after being awarded a penalty. However, captain Jordan Ayew failed to convert from the spot, leaving the scores level.
The missed opportunity did little to dampen Ghana’s momentum as the hosts continued to dominate possession and create chances.
Their persistence paid off when defender Jonas Adjetey broke the deadlock after connecting with a delivery from Mohammed Salisu to put the Black Stars ahead.
The goal settled nerves among the home supporters as Ghana controlled proceedings for the remainder of the first half.
Somalia attempted to respond after the break but struggled to break down a disciplined Ghanaian defence marshalled by Salisu and Adjetey.
The Black Stars doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute when Felix Afena-Gyan finished calmly after being set up by Mohammed Kudus, whose creativity and attacking influence were evident throughout the encounter.
Kudus’ return provided a significant boost for Ghana, with the midfielder linking play effectively and creating opportunities for the attacking trio of Afena-Gyan, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Jordan Ayew.
Thomas Partey also dictated play from midfield alongside Caleb Yirenkyi, helping Ghana maintain control as Somalia searched for a way back into the match.
Benjamin Asare was rarely troubled in goal as the Black Stars comfortably saw out the game to record their first points of the qualifying campaign.
The victory eases pressure on coach Bjorkegren in his first competitive assignment and keeps Ghana’s qualification hopes alive ahead of Monday’s return fixture against Somalia.
Ghana would face Somalia again at the Essipong Sports Stadium on November 16, knowing another victory could significantly improve their position in the group standings.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Simon Asare
Email: [email protected]