World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: The 3 Outcomes Ghana Must Avoid to Make it to Canada, USA, Mexico
- The Black Stars were frustrated as Chad salvaged a 1-1 draw in N’Djamena last Thursday, with Ghana conceding a late equaliser
- Ghana must avoid certain outcomes from their remaining four World Cup qualifiers if they are to make it to Canada, USA, Mexico
- The clash between Ghana and Mali is set to be one of the standout games of the CAF World Cup qualifiers
Ghana currently tops Group I of the CAF zone World Cup 2026 qualifiers after seven matches. So far, the Black Stars have been impressive, recording five wins, one draw, and only one loss.
However, with four matches remaining, the possibility of failing to qualify, though unlikely, still exists if results go against them. Understanding how Ghana could stumble provides crucial context for fans and analysts alike.
Source: Twitter
Currently, according to FIFA, Otto Addo's men lead with 16 points, while Madagascar follows with 13, Mali with 12, and Comoros also with 12.
With four matches left, each team can earn a maximum of 12 additional points. This means Ghana could theoretically finish with 28 points if they win all remaining matches.
Similarly, Madagascar can reach 25 points, and Mali or Comoros can each reach 24 points. Although Ghana holds a lead, the close point margins mean that a series of poor results could see them overtaken.
For Ghana to fail, they would need to lose or draw most of their remaining games, particularly against key rivals. Losing all four remaining fixtures would see Ghana stagnate at 16 points.
Meanwhile, if Madagascar wins against Ghana and other opponents, they could overtake the Black Stars based on the qualifiers' tiebreakers, according to Wikipedia.
Likewise, victories for Mali and Comoros against Ghana and lower-ranked teams could further push Ghana down the table. Such results could see Ghana finish third or even lower if goal difference is unfavorable.
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Critical games Ghana must not lose
Ghana’s remaining fixtures include matches against Mali, Madagascar, Comoros, and the Central African Republic (CAR). The matches against Mali, Madagascar, and Comoros are particularly crucial.
Dropping points in these games could allow rivals to leapfrog the four-time African champions on the standings. Even the seemingly easier match against CAR must be approached with caution, as a draw or loss could compound the risk of elimination.
Essentially, the Black Stars must at minimum secure points against top rivals to maintain their qualification hopes.
In summary, the scenario in which Ghana fails is clear: losing against Mali, Madagascar, and Comoros, combined with an unfavorable result against CAR, could see the Black Stars slip to third place.
Additionally, if Madagascar and Mali maximize points against other opponents, Ghana would be mathematically eliminated from qualifying.
While this scenario requires several simultaneous negative results, it underscores the importance of focus, discipline, and execution in the remaining fixtures.
Speaking to YEN.com.gh, veteran Ghanaian sports journalist and football administrator Charles Kwadwo Ntim expressed confidence that the Black Stars will qualify for the 2026 World Cup but emphasized the need for players to elevate their performance.
"I’m confident Ghana has what it takes to qualify, but the players must step up and deliver consistently on the pitch. The Chad performance was absolutely bad, I will not mince words."
Essien hopeful ahead of Ghana vs. Mali
EN.com.gh earlier reported that Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien posted a spirited and encouraging video online ahead of the Monday clash against Mali.
The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan midfielder also paid a visit to the Ghana national team during the 2025 Unit Cup in Brentford.
Source: YEN.com.gh
