2026 World Cup Q: Mali vs. Ghana- Otto Addo reacts to 1-2 victory

Ghana coach Otto Addo praised the team’s resilience after they emerged victorious against Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Thursday night.

Despite trailing at halftime, the Black Stars displayed remarkable tenacity to clinch a 2-1 triumph in Bamako.

Forward Ernest Nuamah scored the equaliser off a header from the far post while substitute Jordan Ayew secured the winning goal in added time.

When asked about the performance, coach Addo acknowledged the close nature of the contest, stating, “I think we had a very good fighting spirit, but the game was 50-50; it was even, and in the end, our substitutes made the difference.”

Regarding tactics, he mentioned employing a specific strategy for this particular game, adding, “In this game, I chose this system. In another game, I might choose a different system.”

With the successful outing against Mali concluded Ghana will now prepare to face the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Monday, June 10.

Reflecting upon the upcoming challenge, Addo anticipates increased pressure due to expectations surrounding their recent success, noting, “The game against Central African Republic will now be even more difficult because we will now be expected to win. Mali and Central African Republic play differently, so I might choose a different system.”

This hard-fought victory represents Ghana’s maiden win in 2024, snapping a streak of disappointing outcomes.