Black Stars thrash CAR 5-0 to edge closer to World Cup qualification

The Black Stars delivered a commanding display on Wednesday evening, cruising to a 5-0 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknès in Morocco to move within touching distance of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana drew first blood in the 20th minute when Mohammed Salisu powered home a towering header from a well-delivered Mohammed Kudus corner, setting the tone for a dominant evening.

The Black Stars maintained their attacking rhythm after the break, and their persistence paid off when Thomas Partey doubled the lead early in the second half, converting from close range after Jordan Ayew’s intelligent assist. The Villarreal midfielder was instrumental throughout, pulling the strings from midfield with composure and authority.

The third goal arrived in the 69th minute through Alexander Djiku, who rose highest to nod home another teasing cross from Ayew. Moments later, Ayew turned finisher, calmly slotting past the CAR goalkeeper to make it 4-0 and add his name to the scoresheet.

Substitute Kamaldeen Sulemana rounded off the rout late on, scoring his first international goal after a clever setup from Joseph Paintsil, putting the result beyond doubt and sparking celebrations on the Ghanaian bench.

The emphatic win places Ghana firmly at the top of Group I, needing just one more positive result in their final qualifier against Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday to confirm their place at the World Cup.

Otto Addo’s men will return home brimming with confidence after a performance that blended discipline, teamwork, and ruthless efficiency — a timely reminder of Ghana’s enduring quality and ambition on the continental stage.