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Ghana return to Accra aiming to tighten their grip on Group I when they face Mali in Round 8 of the World Cup qualifier.
The Black Stars were left frustrated last week after conceding a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw away to Chad, despite Jordan Ayew giving them an early lead. Otto Addo’s side remain unbeaten at home in the qualifiers but wastefulness in front of goal continues to be a concern.
Match details:
- Kick-off: Monday, September 8 – 19:00 Ghana time (20:00 Morocco time)
- Venue: Accra Sports Stadium
- How to Watch: SSC, ORTM, and GTV Sports+
Ghana’s position
- Top of Group I, three points ahead of Madagascar
- Conceded six goals in seven matches
- Unbeaten at home in qualifying
- Otto Addo is expected to make changes, with Thomas Partey tipped to return in midfield and
- Mohammed Salisu pushing for a recall in defence. Kudus, Ayew and Semenyo should once again
- lead the attack.
Mali’s challenge
Mali arrive in good spirits after a commanding 3-0 win over Comoros, which reignited their qualification hopes. Goals from Dorgeles Nene, Kamory Doumbia and Lassana Coulibaly sealed the win.
Tom Saintfiet’s side have lost just once in seven games and remain defensively strong, conceding only four goals. Their Achilles’ heel has been too many draws, leaving them trailing the leaders. Victory in Accra would put them firmly back in contention for automatic qualification.
Group picture
- Ghana – 16 pts
- Comoros – 15 (+ one game)
- Madagascar – 13
- Mali – 12
- Central African Republic – 5
- Chad – 1
Score Prediction
Both sides are defensively sound, so goals may be limited. The safest calls: Ghana to avoid defeat (win or draw), and under 2.5 goals. A tight scoreline such as 1-0 to Ghana or 1-1 draw looks most likely.
