Jordan Ayew Vents at Coach Otto Addo After Substitution in Ghana’s 2026 WCQ Win: Video

Jordan Ayew Vents at Coach Otto Addo After Substitution in Ghana’s 2026 WCQ Win: Video

  • Jordan Ayew turned provider with a crucial assist but later grabbed headlines for the wrong reasons
  • The Leicester City forward came under fire from fans online over a gesture many labelled as “selfish”
  • He remains Ghana’s most reliable source of goals in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with six strikes and five assists to his name

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Ghana captain Jordan Ayew stole the spotlight for the wrong reasons during the Black Stars’ crucial win over Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The 33-year-old, who has been the team’s most consistent performer in the campaign, could not contain his emotions after being substituted late in the game.

Black Stars captain, Jordan Ayew, Jordan Ayew angry, Jordan Ayew substitution, Otto Addo's substitution, Ghana beats Mali, Ghana wins against Mali, Ghana leads Group I, Alexander Djiku's goal, Accra Sports Stadium, 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew responds to Otto Addo's substitution with frustration. Photo by Richard Pelham.
Source: Getty Images

Jordan Ayew reacts angrily after substitution

In footage that quickly went viral, Ayew looked visibly upset when his number came up in the 80th minute.

Although he shook Otto Addo’s hand and received a pat on the back from the coach, the forward continued venting his frustration on the bench.

Read also

Djiku breaks silence after scoring match winner against Mali for Black Stars

Cameras caught him still fuming, a gesture that left many fans unimpressed given his role as team leader.

Watch the video:

Social media users did not hold back their criticism.

@the_Goodsister asked:

"So as he taya wey he no dey tackle too he no dey see."

@coolslade_ called for punishment:

"He should be benched next time. You should not put on such a behavior."

@spartus86 was equally harsh:

"What kinda lifestyle is this. Dem Komot u from ball wey u vex like say only u be wanna player abi!!!!! Snr, let’s be serious."

@remedyburniton added:

"I hate dis attitude of his, ah."

@2geeGh did not mince words:

"Selfish guy Sia man 😡😡"

@Roddy2569 summed it up humorously:

"He taught the team belongs to his father 🤣"

Why Otto Addo substituted Jordan Ayew

Before his angry reaction, Ayew had delivered yet another key assist, underlining his importance to the side.

But Otto Addo might have felt both Ayew and Mohammed Kudus needed rest with the game nearing its conclusion.

Read also

Inaki Williams drops five-word message to Ghanaians after Mali triumph

Ghana beats Mali, Ghana wins against Mali, Ghana leads Group I, Alexander Djiku's goal, Accra Sports Stadium, 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana's starting lineup that pipped Mali in the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier on Monday, September 8, 2025. Photo credit: @moysgovgh/X.
Source: Twitter

Their substitutions allowed Inaki Williams and Joseph Paintsil to enter the fray, ensuring fresh legs helped protect Ghana’s slender lead.

While the new arrivals did not influence the game in attack, they played their part in closing down spaces and keeping the Malians at bay.

Alexander Djiku’s fortuitous strike proved enough for the Black Stars to collect maximum points.

Watch Djiku's goal:

According to CAF Online, the victory pushes Ghana to 19 points at the top of Group I, three ahead of Madagascar.

Comoros sit third on 15, while Mali dropped to fourth after suffering their first defeat under Tom Saintfiet.

Check out the standings:

Next up for Otto Addo’s men is a tricky trip to face the Central African Republic on October 8, per Flashscore.

Three days later, they will conclude their qualifying campaign at home against Comoros, who stunned Ghana in the reverse fixture.

Read also

Otto Addo makes honest admission after Ghana dropped points against Chad

How each Black Stars player performed

In a related report, YEN.com.gh assessed the performances of the Black Stars as they strengthened their hold on Group I.

Debutant Kwasi Sibo, a late addition to the squad, impressed with a solid display in midfield, while Alexander Djiku — the match-winner — earned the highest rating of the night.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe avatar

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: godwin.tagoe@yen.com.gh.