The Black Stars of Ghana have officially secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their fifth appearance at football’s most prestigious global tournament. The milestone came after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday night at the Accra Sports Stadium, a result that lifted Ghana to 25 points in Group I and confirmed their spot in the Mundial.

The decisive goal came in the second half, courtesy of Mohammed Kudus, whose strike proved all Ghana needed to seal qualification. The Black Stars dominated the early exchanges, particularly in the first half, displaying sharp passing and control through the midfield duo of Kwesi Sibo and Thomas Partey, who brought much-needed stability and composure. Despite their dominance, Ghana managed only a handful of clear chances, registering three attempts on goal before halftime.

Comoros, though largely on the defensive, had a notable chance in the 25th minute when a powerful header narrowly missed the post, forcing goalkeeper Asare into swift action to clear the threat.

After a goalless first half, Ghana returned with renewed intensity following the break. The breakthrough arrived when Alidu Seidu delivered a precise cross into the box, finding Thomas Partey, who calmly set up Mohammed Kudus to slot home, handing the Black Stars a well-deserved lead.

Ghana pressed for a second goal, with Jordan Ayew dancing past defenders only to see his final effort blocked. Kudus, too, missed a clear opportunity after a dazzling dribble into the 18-yard box. Comoros fought back late, attempting to capitalize on loose balls with speculative efforts in the 80th minute and in stoppage time, both of which went off target. But the Black Stars held firm, maintaining composure until the final whistle to secure a crucial victory and their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This qualification not only reaffirms Ghana’s dominance in Group I but also marks a historic milestone for head coach Otto Addo. The tactician has become the first coach in Ghana’s history to guide the national team to back-to-back FIFA World Cup qualifications, having also led them to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar after missing the 2018 edition.

Ghana now joins an elite circle of African football powerhouses with multiple World Cup appearances. Only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have appeared more times on the global stage.

The Black Stars’ achievement has also drawn international acclaim. FIFA President Gianni Infantino extended his congratulations, praising Ghanaian fans for their “color, passion, and energy” on the world stage. In a video message following Ghana’s qualification, Infantino described the moment as a “defining one for Ghana and Africa,” commending both players and supporters for their unity and spirit.

He expressed excitement over Ghana’s return to the global scene, noting that the world eagerly anticipates the electrifying atmosphere that Ghanaian fans bring. Infantino also voiced optimism that the Black Stars could replicate or surpass their historic 2010 quarter-final feat in South Africa — when they became only the third African nation to reach that stage — and produce new global stars in the process.

Ghana will now shift focus to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The group stage draw is scheduled for December 5, setting the stage for yet another exciting chapter in Ghana’s football journey.