Ghana 1 Madagascar 0 : Inaki Williams makes the difference with a late strike in Kumasi !

Ghana needed a late goal from Athletic Bilbao striker Inaki Williams to defeat a resolute Madagascar national team side at the Babayara sports stadium on Friday during the first match-day of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

Majeed Ashimeru and Gideon Mensah combined well in the build-up to the Ghana goal.

Ashimeru , who was introduced into the game in the 46th minute by Ghana head coach Chris Hughton , found Gideon Mensah on the left in a neat one-two passing as the France-based defender sent a delightful cross into the Madagascar area , and Inaki Williams produced a strong header to score his first ever Ghana goal.

The 90+ 6 minute winner sent the Babayara crowd into a jubilant mood.

Madagascar , ranked 108 on the latest FIFA ranking , would feel disappointed after holding the Black Stars for 90 minutes.

There were chances for both sides as goalkeepers Richard Ofori of Ghana and the visiting keeper Adrien Melvin pulled some fantastic saves.

Meanwhile , in the other Group I games , Comoros defeated Central African Republic by 4-2 and Mali and Chad will play later today.