Chad snatch late equaliser to deny Ghana victory in World Cup qualifier

Ghana were left disappointed in N’Djamena after conceding a last-minute goal in their 1-1 draw with Chad in Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash.

The Black Stars, who were chasing an early ticket to the tournament, looked on course for all three points until Ecua Celestin struck in the 89th minute to rescue the hosts.

Otto Addo’s men had made a strong start, breaking the deadlock in the 17th minute through Jordan Ayew. The in-form striker connected perfectly with a Mohammed Kudus delivery after the West Ham midfielder had weaved his way past his marker down the right flank.

The home side, under new coach Raoul Savoy, showed greater organisation compared to the team that suffered a 5-0 defeat in Accra earlier in the campaign.

Their persistence paid off late when Celestin, who plays for Young Africans SC, fired an unstoppable effort from the edge of the box past goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, sparking jubilation at the Stade Olympique Marechal Idriss Deby Itno.

The result means Ghana remain at the top of Group I but with decisive fixtures still to come as qualification approaches its climax.