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<p>Spain threatens World Cup boycott over Israel participation.Spanish government officials have suggested the national team could withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup if Israel qualifies for the tournament.</p>

<p>The competition, scheduled for next summer in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will feature Spain as one of the leading contenders. However, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and other senior officials have urged FIFA and UEFA to ban Israel from international football, citing its military actions in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>MUST READ:</strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/i-wont-spare-even-my-mother-or-father-abrafour-warns-before-asantehemaas-burial-2025091810522032809#google_vignette"><strong> 'I won’t spare even my mother or father' – Abrafour warns before Asantehemaa’s burial</strong></a></p>

<p>Sánchez argued that Israel should face the same treatment as Russia, which was expelled from FIFA and UEFA following its invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>A recent UN investigative commission reported there are “strong reasons” to conclude Israel committed acts of genocide in Gaza.</p>

<p>The conflict, which began after Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, has since led to more than 64,000 Palestinian deaths, according to figures from Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel has dismissed the UN findings as “false and distorted”.</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/what-you-must-know-before-venturing-into-real-estate-in-ghana-2025091714350536705"><strong>What You Must Know Before Venturing into Real Estate in Ghana</strong></a></p>

<p>Patxi López, spokesman for Spain’s Socialist Party in Congress, said the government may call for a boycott if Israel is not excluded from the World Cup.</p>

<p>Sports Minister Pilar Alegría reinforced the stance, insisting that “sport cannot remain isolated from violations of human rights.”</p>

<p>FIFA and UEFA have yet to comment on the matter.</p>

<h2>Spain Back on Top of FIFA Rankings</h2>

<p>In a separate development, Spain has returned to the No. 1 spot in <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://inside.fifa.com/fifa-world-ranking/men">FIFA’s world rankings</a> for the first time in 11 years.</p>

<p><strong>READ MORE: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/ghanaian-kofi-offeh-and-his-group-establishing-an-african-kingdom-in-scotland-face-eviction-2025091813332540369"><strong>Ghanaian Kofi Offeh and his group establishing an African kingdom in Scotland face eviction</strong></a></p>

<p>Under head coach Luis de la Fuente, La Roja reclaimed the top position after a flawless start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, including emphatic victories over Bulgaria and Turkey.</p>

<p>Spain now leads the rankings with 1,875.37 points.</p>

<p>The last time Spain held the top spot was in June 2014, during the golden era that saw them win Euro 2012 and the 2010 World Cup. Their resurgence signals a new chapter as they prepare for next year’s tournament.</p>

Spain threatens to boycott 2026 FIFA World Cup over Israel’s participation

Mandela Anuvabe

<p>Ghana have climbed one spot in the latest FIFA world rankings, moving from 76th to 75th after their recent outings in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.</p>

<p>The Black Stars were held to a 1-1 draw away in&nbsp;Chad before securing a <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/5-key-lessons-from-ghanas-world-cup-qualifying-games-against-chad-and-mali-2025090911132720647">1-0 victory over Mali</a> at the Accra Sports Stadium. These results that helped lift their global standing.</p>

<p>However, their position in Africa remains unchanged, with Ghana still ranked 14th on the continent.</p>

<p>Head coach Otto Addo will be aiming to continue that progress when his side return to action later this year, as the Black Stars prepare to conclude their 2025 fixtures with crucial World Cup qualifying games against the Central African Republic and Comoros in October.</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO:</strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/manchester-city-vs-napoli-champions-league-preview-h2h-key-stats-predictions-2025091809320961963"><strong> Manchester City vs Napoli – Champions League preview: H2H, key stats, predictions</strong></a></p>

<p>Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points after eight games having won six matches with one draw and lose apiece. They lead second-placed Madagascar by only three points, while Comoros occupy third on the group standings with 15 points.</p>

<p>Mali, who were touted as the Black Stars’ toughest opponent in the group, have only managed to mass 12 points after eight games and are currently out of the race for automatic qualification.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOvbdzWjDM_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOvbdzWjDM_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<p>Ghana’s next opponent, Central African Republic, sit in fifth place with five points and the the whipping boys of the group, Chad have only one point after stunning the Black Stars in N’Djamena.</p>

<p><strong>MUST READ: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/jose-mourinho-returns-to-benfica-after-25-years-on-two-year-deal-2025091809140515401"><strong>Jose Mourinho returns to Benfica after 25 years on two-year deal</strong></a></p>

<p>The four-time African champions are looking to secure their fifth <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/how-nigeria-can-still-qualify-for-2026-fifa-world-cup-despite-draw-with-south-africa-2025091010170908228">FIFA World Cup</a> appearance since their debut in 2006. Ghana last missed the Mundial in 2018 when Russia hosted the tournament.</p>

Ghana go up in latest FIFA rankings, maintain position in Africa

Ghana rise to 75th in FIFA world rankings after strong World Cup qualifiers but remain 14th in Africa...

<p>Ghana’s Black Queens are set to make a landmark appearance when they meet England’s Lionesses for the very first time at senior level.</p>

<p>The historic clash will take place on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton as part of England’s much-talked-about Homecoming Series.</p>

<p>For the Black Queens, the fixture represents far more than an international friendly. It is a unique opportunity to test themselves against the reigning European champions and one of the strongest teams in world football.</p>

<p>Facing England offers the Queens a chance to measure their progress as they look ahead to future competitions.</p>

<p>Ghana’s women have long held a special place in African football history. In 1999, they became the first African women’s team to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, blazing a trail for the continent.</p>

<p>This year, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/minority-mps-donate-ghcedi100000-to-black-queens-for-winning-bronze-at-wafcon-video-2025072917345773526">they won bronze at the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) </a>after beating South Africa 4-3 on penalties.</p>

<p>The Lionesses, on the other hand, became the second team in history to retain their European title when they defeated Spain on penalty-shootout to win the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/meet-michelle-agyemang-ghanaian-teenager-who-saved-england-at-womens-euro-2025-2025072816211250655">UEFA Women's EURO 2025</a>&nbsp;final in Basel.</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOgW7SfDHfT/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Pulse Sports Ghana (@pulsesportsgh)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/asamoah-gyan-responds-to-reports-of-accusing-osimhen-of-faking-injury-2025091209523412548"><strong>Asamoah Gyan responds to reports of accusing&nbsp;Osimhen of faking injury</strong></a></p>

<p>This meeting with the Lionesses comes at a time when the Ghana Football Association is working to strengthen and restructure the women’s game domestically, aiming to restore the Queens to the top tier of the African game.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">✨🇬🇭 Big Test for the Black Queens! 🇬🇭✨<br><br>Your WAFCON Bronze medalist will face European champions, <a href="https://twitter.com/Lionesses?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lionesses</a> in an international friendly on 2nd December 2025 at St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton.<br><br>A golden opportunity to test our strength as we build towards the next WAFCON. 💪🏾… <a href="https://t.co/c3O0LpyxrN">pic.twitter.com/c3O0LpyxrN</a></p>&mdash; Ghana Women National Teams 🇬🇭 (@GhanaWNT) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaWNT/status/1966481638642032645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>With the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers approaching, this Southampton encounter will be a valuable test of Ghana’s tactical organisation, mental strength, and competitive edge.</p>

<p><strong>MUST READ: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/highest-paid-managers-in-world-football-2025091212254512199"><strong>Top 10 highest-paid managers in world football (Latest Ranking)</strong></a></p>

<p>For the Black Queens, it is not just about results, but about showing the world that Ghana remains a force in women’s football with ambitions as bold as its proud history.</p>

Ghana’s Black Queens set for historic clash against England

Ghana’s Black Queens will face England’s Lionesses for the first time in history on December 2, 2025, in a high-profile international friendly at St Mary’s Stadium...

<p>Nigeria’s hopes of securing a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain alive, even after being held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The Super Eagles went behind in the 25th minute when William Troost-Ekong diverted Mohau Nkota’s cross into his own net. However, they showed resilience and equalised on the stroke of half-time through Calvin Bassey, who capitalised on Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cutback.</p>

<p>In the second half, Nigeria pushed for a winner through substitute Tolu Arokodare, while South Africa threatened with Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s long-range effort. Despite chances at both ends, neither side could find a decisive goal, and the match ended in a stalemate.</p>

<p>The result leaves Nigeria in third place in Group C with 11 points from eight matches. They are level with Rwanda but behind both South Africa and Benin in the standings. </p>

<p>South Africa remain top with 17 points, while Benin sit second on 14 points. Lesotho have six points, and Zimbabwe are bottom with four.</p>

<h2>Here is the current Group C table:</h2>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/2-ghanaian-teenagers-named-among-best-u-20-players-in-the-world-2025090917212476252"><strong>2 Ghanaian teenagers named among best U-20 players in the world</strong></a></p>

<p>Nigeria still have two crucial fixtures to play in October against Lesotho and Benin. Victories in both matches could keep their qualification hopes alive, especially if South Africa slip in their remaining games against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.</p>

<h2>How Nigeria can secure qualification</h2>

<p>There is also an unresolved issue that could affect the standings. Reports suggest <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/nigerias-world-cup-hopes-resurrected-as-south-africa-face-points-deduction-2025032712165264460">South Africa may face sanctions</a> for allegedly fielding an ineligible player earlier in the qualifiers, and a potential points deduction could significantly alter the group outcome.</p>

<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/nigerias-world-cup-hopes-resurrected-as-south-africa-face-points-deduction-2025032712165264460"><strong>Nigeria’s World Cup hopes resurrected as South Africa face points deduction</strong></a></p>

<p>Only the group winner is guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, second-placed teams across all groups still have a chance to qualify through the intercontinental play-offs, which gives Nigeria another route to the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>MUST READ: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/i-know-these-tricks-asamoah-gyan-questions-osimhens-injury-in-nigerias-clash-2025091008523565103"><strong>'I know these tricks' - Asamoah Gyan questions Osimhen’s injury in Nigeria’s clash</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite recent setbacks, the Super Eagles remain within touching distance of qualification, and their destiny could hinge on their ability to secure maximum points in the final two matches.</p>

How Nigeria can still qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup despite draw with South Africa

Nigeria remain in contention for a 2026 FIFA World Cup spot after a 1-1 draw with South Africa, leaving October’s fixtures against Lesotho and Benin crucial for their qualification hopes...

<p>Mali’s Football Federation (Femafoot) has announced its intention to file an official complaint with FIFA over what it describes as poor officiating during their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ghana.</p>

<p>The game, played at the Accra Sports Stadium, ended in a 1-0 victory for the Black Stars thanks to a 49th-minute strike from defender Alexander Djiku.</p>

<p>However, the goal sparked heated protests from the Malian players, who argued that the referee failed to spot several fouls in the build-up, including one on their goalkeeper Diarra Djigui.</p>

<p>The match was overseen by South African referee Badi Luxolo, with Phatsoane Souru from Lesotho and Cledwin Baloyi from South Africa serving as assistant referees.</p>

<p>Naftal Mweshitsama Negongo of Namibia was the fourth official. Moroccan official Guezzaz Mohammed acted as Referee Assessor, while Nigeria’s Kachalla Babagana Kalli was the Match Commissioner.</p>

<p>Throughout the contest, Malian players and technical staff were visibly frustrated with decisions from the referee and his team, frequently voicing their displeasure.</p>

<p>After the game, the Mali team led by their goalkeeper and coach Tom Saintfiet furiously confronted the match officials as they exited the pitch.</p>

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<p><strong>READ ALSO: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/alexander-djiku-runs-to-russia-after-heroic-black-stars-winner-2025090916340733603"><strong>Alexander Djiku runs to Russia after heroic Black Stars winner</strong></a></p>

<p>African football insider Micky Junior reports that Femafoot has resolved to submit a formal complaint to FIFA, citing what they believe was biased officiating that influenced the outcome of the match.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 Mali are contesting Alexander Djiku’s goal against them yesterday, insisting there was a foul and a push in the build-up.<br><br>The Malian FA say they will file a formal complaint to FIFA against the match officials and the Ghana FA.<br><br>🎥 Watch this video closely and share your… <a href="https://t.co/jjMKifv6DH">pic.twitter.com/jjMKifv6DH</a></p>&mdash; Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) <a href="https://twitter.com/MickyJnr__/status/1965321819063251262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>READ ALSO:</strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/5-key-lessons-from-ghanas-world-cup-qualifying-games-against-chad-and-mali-2025090911132720647"><strong> 5 key lessons from Ghana’s World Cup qualifying games against Chad and Mali</strong></a></p>

<p>The defeat was a major setback for Mali, who now sit fourth in Group C with 12 points. Ghana, meanwhile, strengthened their position at the top of the group with 19 points, edging closer to securing qualification for the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/tunisia-become-second-african-country-to-qualify-for-2026-world-cup-2025090815361276764">2026 FIFA World Cup</a> in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.</p>

<p>If the complaint is upheld, it could have wider implications for both teams as FIFA continues to push for higher refereeing standards in its competitions.</p>

<p>For now, however, Ghana celebrate a crucial win while Mali focus on seeking justice off the pitch.</p>

‘Ghana in trouble’ as Mali set to report match officials in World Cup defeat to FIFA [PC: Senyuiedzorm Awusi Adadevoh]

Mali’s Football Federation to file a complaint to FIFA over refereeing decisions in their 1-0 World Cup qualifier defeat to Ghana in Accra...

‘Ghana in trouble’ as Mali set to report match officials in World Cup defeat to FIFA

<p>The Black Stars of Ghana secured a vital 1-0 win over Mali in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Alexander Djiku scoring the decisive goal early in the second half.</p>

<p>Mali controlled possession in the first half, but Ghana created the clearer chances, with Antoine Semenyo missing the best opportunity before the break. The breakthrough came in the 49th minute when Djiku rose to head home Jordan Ayew’s corner after Caleb Yirenkyi’s long ball unsettled the Malian defence.</p>

<p>Mohammed Kudus impressed with his creativity, while substitute Kamaldeen Sulemana added energy but wasted chances to seal the game. Mali pressed hard in the final stages, yet goalkeeper Benjamin Asare remained composed to secure the clean sheet.</p>

<p><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/alexander-djiku-scores-as-black-stars-snatch-vital-victory-over-mali-2025090821004599956">The result leaves Ghana top of Group I with 19 points</a>, three ahead of Madagascar, and keeps Otto Addo’s side firmly on course for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>MUST READ: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/top-10-countries-with-the-largest-prison-populations-in-the-world-2025072318273977326"><strong>Top 10 countries with the largest prison populations in the world</strong></a></p>

<p>The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper was assured between the sticks, displaying composure and authority in organising his defence. Although Mali rarely threatened, Asare remained alert throughout and ensured the Black Stars kept a clean sheet.</p>

<p>The defender produced a determined display under sustained pressure. He picked up a yellow card but showed strong defensive qualities, standing firm when called upon.</p>

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<p>A commanding performance from Ghana’s defensive leader. Djiku not only marshalled the backline with authority but also delivered the decisive moment, scoring the winning goal to keep the Black Stars top of the group.</p>

<p>Not his most spectacular outing, but Salisu remained solid at the back. Despite limited game time at club level this season, the Monaco defender showed no signs of rustiness.</p>

<p>Deployed in an unfamiliar right wing-back role, Yirenkyi initially looked unsettled but grew into the game. His energy and determination allowed him to compete well as the match progressed, contributing effectively in both defence and attack.</p>

<p><strong>READ MORE: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/7-types-of-people-who-dont-really-need-to-go-to-university-2025090515290634469"><strong>7 types of people who don’t really need to go to university</strong></a></p>

<p>Disciplined in his approach, Mensah played with caution and avoided unnecessary risks going forward. His pragmatic display suggested he was following tactical instructions.</p>

<p>On his senior debut, the Real Oviedo midfielder overcame a nervy first half to deliver a composed performance after the break. His partnership with Partey gave Ghana stability in midfield.</p>

<p>It was a steady performance from the Villarreal midfielder. While not at his dominant best, Partey maintained control in midfield and provided balance for the Black Stars.</p>

<p>Arguably the standout performer on the night. Kudus dazzled with his dribbling and creativity, carving open Mali’s defence and creating the best chance of the first half for Semenyo.</p>

<p>A quiet night for the forward, who struggled to influence the game as Ghana’s focal point. He squandered the best chance of the first half, failing to convert Kudus’ delivery.</p>

<p>Worked tirelessly in attack, holding up play effectively and providing the assist for Djiku’s winning goal with a pinpoint corner.</p>

<p><strong>READ THIS: </strong><a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/business/how-to-survive-and-thrive-in-ghana-without-borrowing-from-mtn-momo-or-quick-loan-apps-2025081512303223221"><strong>How to survive and thrive in Ghana without borrowing from MTN MoMo or quick loan apps</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Kamaldeen Sulemana – 5/10: </strong>Brought pace and energy after coming off the bench but lacked precision in the final third. Missed good opportunities to extend Ghana’s lead.</p>

<p><strong>Joseph Paintsil – 6/10:</strong> Added directness and attacking drive after his introduction. His ball-carrying ability caused problems for the Mali defence late on.</p>

<p><strong>Inaki Williams – 5/10:</strong> Given limited minutes, the Athletic Bilbao forward struggled to make an impact before the final whistle.</p>

Black Stars player ratings vs Mali: Ayew 7/10, Asare 7/10, Thomas Partey average score

<p>The Black Stars of Ghana secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mali in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday night, thanks to a decisive strike from defender Alexander Djiku.</p>

<p>Djiku’s close-range finish in the 49th minute proved enough to separate the two sides, as Ghana extended their lead at the top of Group I with 19 points — three ahead of second-placed Madagascar.</p>

<p>The clash was fiercely contested from the onset, with Mali showing their intent early on. The Eagles dominated possession and pressed aggressively through the midfield, forcing Kwasi Sibo and Thomas Partey into defensive duties to contain their relentless pressure. Djiku, meanwhile, marshalled the Ghanaian backline with composure to keep the visitors at bay.</p>

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<p>Despite Mali’s dominance in possession, Ghana carved out the better scoring opportunities in the first half. In the 25th minute, Caleb Yerenkyi combined neatly with Mohammed Kudus, but the final ball failed to break through the Malian defence. Moments before halftime, Antoine Semenyo squandered a golden chance from close range after Kudus’ inviting cross from the right, ensuring the match went into the break goalless.</p>

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<p>The game’s turning point came shortly after the restart. In the 47th minute, Yerenkyi lofted a long ball forward that unsettled the Malian defence, forcing the goalkeeper into a fumble. From the resulting corner, expertly taken by Jordan Ayew, Djiku rose highest to flick the ball into the net and send the home fans into raptures.</p>

<p>Buoyed by the opener, the Black Stars pushed for a second. Kudus dazzled with individual brilliance in the 55th minute, gliding past three defenders before his powerful drive was blocked. Substitute Kamaldeen Sulemana added pace and energy on the flanks, twice threatening to double the advantage — first when he nearly played Inaki Williams through on goal, and later when he missed a clear opportunity of his own.</p>

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<p>Mali, however, never relented, piling pressure in the latter stages of the match. Ghanaian goalkeeper Benjamin Asare stood tall, producing crucial saves to deny the Eagles an equaliser and preserve the lead.</p>

<p>At full-time, Djiku’s solitary goal was enough to seal all three points for Otto Addo’s men. The result not only strengthens Ghana’s grip on Group I but also edges them closer to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.</p>

Alexander Djiku scores as Black Stars snatch vital victory over Mali

<p>Tunisia have booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic late winner from Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane secured a 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea on Monday.</p>

<p>The midfielder struck in the fourth minute of added time, calmly finishing from a Firas Chaouat assist to spark wild celebrations among the Tunisian players and fans. The result means the Carthage Eagles are heading to North America with two qualifying games still left to play.</p>

<p>Tunisia sit top of Group H with 22 points from eight matches, 10 clear of second-placed Namibia, who still have a game in hand. Remarkably, the North Africans have yet to concede a goal in the entire campaign.</p>

<p>This qualification marks Tunisia’s seventh appearance at a World Cup and their third consecutive tournament. They featured in both Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, exiting at the group stage on both occasions.</p>

<p>The Carthage Eagles become the second African nation to officially qualify, joining Morocco, who sealed their spot earlier after a 5-0 demolition of Niger in Rabat.</p>

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<h2>Morocco qualify as first African country in style</h2>

<p>The Atlas Lions, who stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals in Qatar, secured top place in Group E thanks to goals from Ismael Saibari, Ayoub El Kaabi, Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi. </p>

<p>That win, combined with Tanzania’s draw against Congo-Brazzaville, confirmed their place with matches to spare.</p>

<p>Tunisia’s achievement highlights the growing strength of North African football, with both Morocco and Tunisia showcasing consistency on the continental and global stage.</p>

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<p>For head coach Jalel Kadri and his squad, the next challenge will be to break their run of early exits and push further in the expanded 48-team World Cup set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.</p>

Tunisia becomes second African country to qualify for 2026 World Cup

Tunisia snatch a dramatic last-minute win over Equatorial Guinea to become the second African nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup...

Tunisia become second African country to qualify for 2026 World Cup

<p>Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has emphasised the seriousness with which Ghana will approach their crucial clash against Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.</p>

<p>Ghana will host Mali on Monday night at the Accra Sports Stadium in a decisive Matchday 8 fixture.</p>

<p>Speaking at the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.ghanafa.org/every-word-from-otto-addos-pre-mali-press-conference">pre-match press conference</a>, Addo underlined the team’s determination and commitment to securing victory.</p>

<blockquote><p>We have to give our lives for this. We are not there yet—no way. And our opponents will do everything to stop us from going there. So, it’s game by game, no matter who. No underrating, nothing. Mali, I’m sure nobody will underrate them. Everybody knows they’re good</p></blockquote>

<p>The coach stressed the importance of full concentration until the final whistle.</p>

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<blockquote><p>I’m not worried. I know we will put everything in. But we have to be concentrated till the last minute.</p></blockquote>

<p>He further stated that their destinies are in their own hands when they clash with Mali.</p>

<blockquote><p>The only positive thing is we still have it in our own hands. We still can decide our own destiny. We will put everything&nbsp;into this game tomorrow to win this game.</p></blockquote>

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<h2>What’s Next for the Black Stars?</h2>

<p>The Black Stars go into the match with 16 points from seven games but missed an opportunity to extend their lead after a disappointing draw against Chad. With Comoros, Madagascar, and Mali also in contention, the group remains tightly contested.</p>

<p>To strengthen their chances of qualifying for a fifth World Cup appearance, Ghana must step up and deliver against Mali.</p>

‘I’m not afraid of anything’ - Otto Addo unmoved by calls for his sacking

'We have to give our lives for this game' - Otto Addo ahead of Mali clash

<p>Morocco has secured its place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to qualify after thrashing Niger 5-0 in Rabat.</p>

<p>The Atlas Lions, who made history as Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists at Qatar 2022, sealed their spot from Group E with two games in hand.</p>

<p>This followed Tanzania’s 1-1 draw against Congo-Brazzaville earlier on Friday, which meant Morocco only needed a win to progress.</p>

<p>Niger’s hopes were dealt a major blow when Abdoul-Latif Goumey was sent off in the 26th minute after a second yellow card.</p>

<p>Morocco wasted no time taking advantage, as Ismael Saibari opened the scoring three minutes later from Youssef Belammari’s cross. Saibari struck again just before half-time, this time assisted by Achraf Hakimi.</p>

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