Jordan Ayew and Louis Mafouta both scored sensational hat-tricks as Ghana secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
For the second consecutive game, Otto Addo’s team had to stage a comeback, following their 2-1 win over Mali in Bamako last Thursday.
Ayew opened the scoring with a penalty in the sixth minute, but CAR took the lead by halftime with two goals from Mafouta.
The Black Stars surged back in the second half. Ayew added two more goals and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku scored, giving Ghana a 4-2 lead at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Coach Otto Addo made three changes from the team that beat Mali, bringing in Ayew, Issahaku, and Kamaldeen Sulemana for Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, and Tariq Lamptey. Addo also reverted to a back four defense, with Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Alexander Djiku, and Mohammed Salisu protecting goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
In midfield, Thomas Partey partnered with Abdul Salis Samed, while Sulemana and Issahaku operated on the flanks. Mohammed Kudus was retained in the lineup, and Ayew led the attack after his crucial goal against Mali.
The game started with excitement as Issahaku earned a penalty within two minutes, which Ayew converted, marking his fifth goal in four matches for Ghana. However, Mafouta equalized in the 11th minute, and CAR nearly scored again due to a defensive error by Djiku. Mafouta scored his second goal just before halftime.
In the second half, Ghana intensified their efforts, utilizing the flanks effectively. Ayew equalized with a header from a Mensah cross, and Issahaku scored shortly after with a deflected shot. Ayew completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble.
Mafouta completed his hat-trick with a stunning free-kick, making it 4-3, but Ghana held on for the win.
With this victory, the Black Stars move to the top of Group I in the CAF World Cup qualifiers, three points ahead of Comoros and Madagascar, who have upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar, respectively.
