Jordan Ayew scores late winner in Ghana’s 2-1 win over Mali

Jordan Ayew scored a late winner for Ghana in their 2-1 victory over Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Jordan Ayew came off the bench to breathe life into the game, which almost looked like ending in a 1-1 stalemate.

The Black Stars started the match with good build-up play but later lost possession to the hosts, who took control of the game.

Mali turned up the heat on Ghana and had a few chances at goal, but the Black Stars remained resolute in defense.

The Black Stars, with Antoine Semenyo leading the line, had a fair number of chances in the game.

Mali broke the deadlock in the match in added time of the first half when Kamory Doumbia scored the opener.

It was a nice setup from his teammate that saw Moussa Doumbia strike the ball, but surprisingly, the ball deflected off the body of Alexander Djiku to give Mali the lead.

Straight after passing the center circle, Ghana went in search of the equalizer, but there was not enough time left.

The Black Stars returned from the break much more rejuvenated and motivated.

After a potent attack on the Malians, Ernest Nuamah brought parity for the Black Stars in the game.

It was a cross from Salis Samed that found Nuamah, who was lurking behind a Mali defender, to score the equalizer.

Coach Otto Addo later brought on Jordan Ayew, and the substitute became the game-changer.

Jordan launched three attacks, which saw Thomas Partey miss a big chance in the game.

His second chance was intercepted by the Malians.

But the Eagles were unable to stop [the river] Jordan from flowing in the final minutes of the game as he dribbled into a tight area to score the winner.

JNA