Jordan Ayew and Louis Mafouta both delivered stunning hat-tricks in a thrilling 4-3 victory for Ghana over the Central African Republic (CAR) during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
In a repeat of their previous comeback victory against Mali, Ghana once again had to fight from behind. The match started with a bang as Ayew scored a penalty just six minutes in, only for CAR to take the lead by halftime thanks to Mafouta’s two goals.
The Black Stars regrouped in the second half. Ayew added two more goals and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku also found the net, securing a win at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium despite Mafouta completing his hat-trick as well.
Ghana’s coach Otto Addo made strategic changes, bringing in Ayew, Issahaku, and Kamaldeen Sulemana to replace Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, and Tariq Lamptey. The defense was anchored by Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Alexander Djiku, and Mohammed Salisu, with Lawrence Ati-Zigi as goalkeeper.
✅ 𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 – We beat Central African Republic 4-3 in Matchday 4 of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Kumasi!
This win takes us to the top of the group with 9 points and gives us back-to-back victories in the qualifiers! 🤩#BlackStars | #FIFAWCQ | #GHACAR pic.twitter.com/9w7W1NmVGX
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 10, 2024
In midfield, Thomas Partey and Abdul Salis Samed paired up, while Sulemana and Issahaku took the wings. Mohammed Kudus, a key player from the Mali match, retained his spot, with Ayew leading the attack.
The crowd erupted early when Issahaku earned a penalty that Ayew converted, marking his fifth goal in four games for Ghana. However, CAR equalized when Mafouta outpaced Salisu and Djiku to score. Despite some near misses and defensive errors, including a critical save by Ati Zigi, the first half ended with CAR leading.
Ghana came out stronger in the second half, utilizing the flanks effectively. Ayew’s header tied the game, followed by Issahaku’s deflected shot giving Ghana the lead. Ayew completed his hat-trick shortly after, amidst chaotic scenes in the box.
Mafouta’s late free-kick added tension, but Ghana held on for a 4-3 victory. This win places the Black Stars at the top of Group I in the CAF World Cup qualifiers, ahead of Comoros and Madagascar, who will both play on Tuesday.
