- Alexander Djiku scored the decisive goal as the Black Stars sealed a hard-fought win against Mali
- Real Oviedo’s Kwasi Sibo, who received a late call-up, put in a decent shift in midfield on his debut
- YEN.com.gh rates the performance of the Black Stars players as they tightened their grip on Group I
After the frustrating draw against Chad, Ghana’s Black Stars returned to winning ways with a spirited performance against Mali.
The team looked more composed and determined in front of their home supporters, securing three valuable points to steady their World Cup qualifying campaign.
YEN.com.gh breaks down how each player fared in this high-stakes encounter.
Ghana Player ratings against Mali
Benjamin Asare (Goalkeeper) – 8/10
Calm and assured, Asare gave the backline confidence with his presence. His positioning was spot on, and he pulled off key saves that frustrated the Malian forwards.
Quick with his distribution, he often turned defence into attack. A commanding shift in goal.
Gideon Mensah (Left Wing Back) – 6.5/10
It was another mixed outing from Mensah. Early on, he looked jittery and gave the ball away too easily.
But after halftime, he settled, improved his passing, and grew into the game.
Caleb Yirenkyi (Right Wing Back) – 7.5/10
Still learning his trade in an unfamiliar role, the teenager continues to impress.
He was adventurous down the right flank, and it was his audacious effort that crashed off the crossbar and led to the corner for Ghana’s only goal. Strong both going forward and tracking back.
Alexander Djiku (Centre Back) – 9/10
A warrior at the heart of defence. Djiku marshalled the backline with authority, cutting out danger before it developed.
He read crosses well and kept the team organised. His match-winning goal was the icing on a near-perfect display.
Jonas Adjetey (Centre Back) – 7/10
It was a nervous start from Adjetey, who picked up an early booking, but he recovered his composure as the game wore on. By the final whistle, he looked far more assured, helping the team ride out Mali’s late pressure.
Mohammed Salisu (Centre Back) – 7.5/10
Confident, composed, and reliable, Salisu justified his recall. He intercepted danger at crucial moments and never looked flustered under pressure. His presence made a big difference against Mali’s physical attackers.
Thomas Partey (Midfielder) – 8.5/10
A midfield masterclass. Partey not only bossed possession but also grabbed two brilliant headers to underline his influence.
He broke up play, dictated the tempo, and covered every blade of grass. Even his yellow card could not overshadow a standout display.
Kwasi Sibo (Midfielder) – 8/10
Quiet but effective, Sibo provided balance in midfield. His passing was tidy, and defensively, he broke up Mali’s rhythm. He might not have been flashy, but his role was vital in giving Partey and Kudus room to shine.
Mohammed Kudus (Right Forward) – 8/10
The creative spark of the team. Kudus tormented defenders with his movement and vision. Though he did not score, his link-up play and ability to create openings were a constant threat. He was everywhere, proving once again why he carries the “Starboy” tag.
Jordan Ayew (Left Forward) – 8/10
Ayew’s set-piece delivery continues to be Ghana’s secret weapon. His assist for Djiku’s header was inch-perfect, adding to his growing list of decisive contributions.
He worked tirelessly off the ball and created problems throughout. The only sour note was his visible frustration at being substituted.
Antoine Semenyo (Striker) – 7/10
Semenyo may not have found the net, but his tireless running stretched Mali’s defence. He held up play well and linked with midfielders to create spaces. Lacked the finishing touch but gave the backline a tough evening.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
