2026 World Cup: Partey scores twice as Ghana downs Madagascar

Ghana's Black Stars edged yet again towards another FIFA World Cup appearance as they saw off Madagascar 3-0 to stretch their lead in group I of qualifying.

They are looking to grace their fifth World Cup and they started the match on the front foot as they sought what would be an important result against the so-far impressive Madagascar.

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey scored twice, with West Ham playmaker Mohammed Kudus scoring once as Ghana outplayed Madagascar 3-0 on Monday in a top-of-the-table African 2026 World Cup qualifying group match in Al Hoceima Morocco.

Madagascar do not have a FIFA approved stadium at home.

Partey scored with two headers on 11 and 53 minutes, both finished off superb deliveries by captain Jordan Ayew.

Ayew was also the main man as Kudus scored to complete an effective display from the Leicester City forward.

Surprisingly, Mali drew 0-0 with the Central African Republic in another Group I clash in Casablanca, Morocco to allow Ghana open up a healthy lead.

They now have 15 points from six matches played. Madagascar have 10, with Mali on nine points.

The Comoros also have nine, while Central African Republic have five points.