Ghana Seals 2026 World Cup Berth in Accra
12 October 2025
Ghana clinches 2026 World Cup berth in Accra
Ghana secured a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 victory over Comoros in Accra on Sunday, rising to the top of Africa's Group 9 in the qualifiers. The win confirms the Black Stars as Africa's representative at the tournament and marks their fifth World Cup appearance following 2006, 2010 (quarterfinals), 2014 and 2022.
The victory comes amid a broader reshaping of the continent's qualifiers, with a new format delivering nine direct spots and a potential tenth through intercontinental playoffs. Ghana joined four other African nations that had already booked their tickets: Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt.
Ghana's return to the world stage follows a period of mixed results and a managerial change, as Otto Addo replaced Chris Hughton after a disappointing run in early 2024. The first half of the match had been cautious, but Kudus struck early in the second half, converting a cross from Thomas Partey at 47 minutes to seal the win.
Egypt also closed their campaign with a victory over Guinea-Bissau, while the other results in Africa shaped the final standings. In the group standings, Egypt led the way with 26 points, followed by Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone, with a structure that now feeds into the final playoff system for the continent.
The African qualification system now features nine groups of six teams, each playing ten matches. Group winners earn direct qualification; the best four runners-up advance to the playoff phase for an extra chance to reach the World Cup.
Ghana's win in Accra is a reminder that football can still deliver precision when it matters most, and the celebrations are just beginning. Sniper punchline: If football is a sniper rifle, Ghana just delivered a clean headshot on 47 minutes. Sniper punchline 2: Ghana didn't just aim for the World Cup; they nailed it with a stylish finish.
