- Ghana boosted their 2026 World Cup hopes with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mali in Accra, thanks to Alexander Djiku’s decisive strike
- The win put Ghana on 19 points, keeping them top of Group I with just two games left in the qualifiers
- Mali’s Football Association is reportedly set to file a formal complaint with FIFA following the match
The Mali Football Association is reportedly preparing to lodge a formal protest with FIFA over the performance of referee Badi Luxolo during Monday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ghana in Accra.
The Black Stars took a significant step toward qualification with a 1-0 victory over Mali, a result that restored their three-point lead at the top of Group I.
Source: Twitter
Ghana’s winner came in the 49th minute when Alexander Djiku pounced at the back post after Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra failed to claim Jordan Ayew’s inswinging corner.
The goal proved decisive, although Mali pushed hard in the final half hour, dominating possession and creating pressure, but they were repeatedly denied by Ghana’s resolute defence.
The defeat was a major blow to Mali, who had needed victory to keep their hopes of automatic qualification alive.
With the result, Ghana now sit on 19 points and have their destiny in their own hands ahead of the final two rounds of fixtures.
Source: Twitter
Only the nine group winners in African qualifying will book automatic tickets to the 2026 World Cup, while the four best-ranked runners-up will move into the continental play-offs.
Mali, one of the continent’s top seeds, have never reached the World Cup finals and are now mathematically out of the race to top the group.
Mali FA to file protest with FIFA
Still, the Malian FA insists they are not ready to let the three points go uncontested.
Their officials are set to file a protest with FIFA, claiming Djiku’s decisive goal should have been disallowed due to an alleged foul and push in the build-up.
The complaint will be directed both at the match officials and the Ghana Football Association.
Djiku’s goal shared on X is below:
On the night, South African referee Badi Luxolo, 30, officiated the game. He was assisted by Phatsoane Souru (Assistant Referee I) from Lesotho, Cledwin Baloyi (Assistant Referee II) from South Africa, and Naftal Mweshitsama Negongo from Namibia, who acted as the fourth official.
With only 12 points from eight games, Mali can no longer catch up. Nonetheless, they could still make it via the playoff spots if they finish in second position.
The Eagles could also use the remainder of the matches in the qualifiers as a dress rehearsal for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations later this year.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
