Alexander Djiku Breaks Silence After Scoring Match Winner Against Mali for Black Stars

Alexander Djiku Breaks Silence After Scoring Match Winner Against Mali for Black Stars

  • Ghana’s match-winner against Mali, Alexander Djiku, has finally spoken following his decisive strike in the qualifier match
  • The 31-year-old’s goal proved vital as it strengthened Ghana’s hold at the top of Group I, keeping alive their 2026 World Cup aspirations
  • Off the pitch, Djiku is set for a new chapter, with reports indicating he has completed a move from Fenerbahçe to Spartak Moscow

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Alexander Djiku has finally reacted after becoming Ghana’s match-winner in the tense 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali on Monday, September 8.

The dependable defender, who missed the frustrating 1-1 draw with Chad, returned in style at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Alexander Djiku scores for Ghana, Alexander Djiku, Ghana's victory against Mali, Ghana beat Mali, Alexander Djiku celebrates, Djiku's goal against Mali, 2026 World Cup qualifier, Accra Sports Stadium
Alexander Djiku's decisive goal for the Black Stars edged Mali in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier on September 8, 2025. Photo credit: @GhanaBlackstars/X.
Source: Twitter

Early in the second half, he forced the breakthrough when Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diarra mishandled a cross from Jordan Ayew, allowing Djiku to bundle the ball into the net.

Watch Djiku's goal:

The strike sent the crowd into a frenzy, with the home fans celebrating wildly as the Black Stars took control of the game.

Read also

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

From then on, Ghana shifted into a defensive mode, with Djiku and his backline working tirelessly to withstand heavy late pressure from the visitors.

Unfortunately, the 31-year-old, who has reportedly signed for Spartak Moscow, per French Football Weekly, was unable to finish the match after sustaining an injury.

He was substituted in the 87th minute for Jerome Opoku, sparking concern among fans about his fitness.

Despite the injury scare, Djiku’s first words after the game showed his commitment to the national cause.

Posting on X, the former Strasbourg captain wrote:

"All for the nation 🇬🇭❤️💛💚 Thanks God 🙏🏽"

His message triggered a flood of admiration from Ghanaians online.

@KwasiTerminator hailed:

"Ghana's Terminator on the pitch 🙌🔥🔥"

@SeerOffei observed:

"You play as if you were born here, because those from outside do not play with the passion that you carry."

@Don_Ziggy7 applauded:

"This guy is always solid when he plays for the Black Stars, he’s just immense 🤝"

@darkiana3 added:

"Thanks for the goal, you saved the day 🥹"

Read also

Jordan Ayew vents at Otto Addo after substitution in Ghana’s 1-0 win against Mali (video)

@KwasiDeuces remarked:

"You always play with passion and hunger for the nation and we love ❤️ you for the sacrifice, brother."

@dodoo_ishm43172 concluded:

"Great play and sacrifice for Mother Ghana. God bless you for making Ghanaians happy. Hope the injury was not a massive one. Speedy recovery my brother."
Alexander Djiku, Ghana's victory against Mali, Ghana beat Mali, Alexander Djiku celebrates, Djiku's goal against Mali, 2026 World Cup qualifier, Accra Sports Stadium.
Alexander Djiku celebrates Ghana's victory against Mali with his Black Stars teammates. Photo credit: @GhanaBlackstars/X.
Source: Twitter

With two fixtures left in the qualifiers, Ghana needs just four more points to book a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

The journey continues with an away clash against the Central African Republic on October 8 before a decisive home meeting with Comoros three days later, as noted by Flashscore.

Djiku’s presence could prove crucial as Ghana fights to return to football’s biggest stage.

Inaki drops a five-word message to fans

In a similar publication, YEN.com.gh reported that Inaki Williams dropped a brief five-word message to fans following Ghana’s hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Mali.

The Athletic Club captain, who came off the bench in the second half, expressed confidence that Ghana will seal a place at next year’s tournament.

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.