Forward Antoine Semenyo believes Ghana’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Chad in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will serve as a major confidence booster for the Black Stars in their upcoming matches.
The team had struggled in front of goal in recent months, scoring just three goals in their last six matches. Their attacking struggles contributed significantly to their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, raising concerns about the team’s form. However, their dominant performance at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday has given hope that the Black Stars are rediscovering their scoring touch at the right time.
“I feel like we’ve got goal scorers in the team. We just need to get into the right positions, and we’ve done that today. Scoring five goals is a confidence booster,” Semenyo said after the match.
A Statement Performance
The Black Stars wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Semenyo opening the scoring in just the second minute. His early goal set the tone for what would be Ghana’s most commanding performance in recent memory.
Inaki Williams doubled the lead before halftime with a well-placed strike, capitalizing on Chad’s defensive lapses. The Black Stars continued to press forward, and their relentless attacking play paid off early in the second half when Jordan Ayew converted a well-worked team move to make it 3-0.
Defender Mohammed Salisu then got in on the action, rising highest to head home a corner kick, before Ernest Nuamah sealed the win with a composed finish in the closing stages.
It was a performance that highlighted the team’s attacking depth, with goals coming from both forwards and defenders. Ghana not only showed efficiency in front of goal but also controlled possession, created several clear-cut chances, and demonstrated defensive solidity. This sharp contrast to their previous struggles in front of goal was a welcome sight for fans and coaching staff alike.
Ghana Tops Group I
With the victory, Ghana moved to the top of Group I in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, overtaking their closest rivals. The result puts them in a strong position as they continue their bid to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Their previous struggles had led to frustration among supporters, but the convincing win over Chad has restored belief in the team’s potential. With the likes of Semenyo, Williams, and Ayew finding their scoring rhythm, there is optimism that Ghana can maintain their momentum in the qualifiers.
Focus Shifts to Madagascar Clash
Ghana’s next challenge comes on Monday when they take on Madagascar in another important qualifier. The Black Stars will be looking to build on their momentum and secure another crucial three points.
The upcoming match will test Ghana’s ability to maintain consistency, a factor that has eluded them in recent years. Otto Addo’s men must now prove that the performance against Chad was not a one-off display but rather a sign of genuine improvement.
Ghana’s coaching staff will be focused on keeping the players motivated and ensuring that they remain sharp ahead of the Madagascar fixture. With their attacking unit finally clicking, the Black Stars will hope to replicate the dominance displayed against Chad and strengthen their position at the top of the group.
Lessons from the Chad Victory
While the result against Chad was impressive, Ghana’s technical team will be keen to address areas that still need improvement. Despite scoring five goals, the Black Stars missed several clear-cut opportunities, which could prove costly against tougher opponents. Otto Addo and his staff will likely work on fine-tuning the team’s finishing to ensure they remain ruthless in front of goal.
Additionally, maintaining defensive discipline will be crucial moving forward. While Ghana kept a clean sheet against Chad, stronger opposition could expose weaknesses if the team becomes complacent. Ensuring that the backline remains compact and organized will be a priority, especially as they prepare for upcoming matches against more competitive teams in the qualifiers.
Fan Reaction and Team Morale
Ghanaian football fans were thrilled with the performance, as it marked a much-needed return to form for the national team. The atmosphere at the Accra Sports Stadium was electric, with supporters cheering every goal as the Black Stars put on an attacking masterclass.
The victory not only boosted the team’s standing in the qualifiers but also lifted morale within the squad. Players have spoken about the importance of momentum, and with a crucial game against Madagascar approaching, the Black Stars will be eager to keep their winning streak alive.
For Ghana, the goal remains clear: secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and reclaim their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses. With a renewed sense of confidence, a potent attack, and strong leadership from Otto Addo, the Black Stars will be hoping that Friday’s performance was just the beginning of a successful qualifying campaign.
As they prepare for their next battle, Ghana will need to maintain their discipline, hunger, and attacking flair. The challenge ahead is tough, but with renewed belief, the Black Stars are ready to rise to the occasion and push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
