Ghana suffered a frustrating setback in N’Djamena after conceding a dramatic late equaliser to draw 1-1 with Chad in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash. The unexpected result dealt a blow to the Black Stars’ hopes of securing early qualification for the global tournament.
Despite dominating much of the match and taking an early lead, Ghana were unable to maintain their advantage against a resilient Chadian side. The game’s breakthrough came in the 17th minute when Jordan Ayew extended his impressive scoring streak to six goals in this campaign.
Mohammed Kudus, dazzling throughout the match with his flair and creativity, broke past his marker on the right flank before delivering a low cross into the penalty area. Ayew’s intelligent and timely movement allowed him to slot the ball home with ease, giving Otto Addo’s team an early advantage.
Ghana looked the stronger side for much of the match, creating several opportunities to extend their lead and bring themselves closer to qualification. However, they struggled to convert their chances into goals. On the other hand, Chad, guided by new coach Raoul Savoy, showed great resilience despite being under sustained pressure.
The restructured Chad squad appeared more disciplined and determined compared with the team that suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat in Accra earlier. That perseverance finally paid off in the 89th minute when Young Africans SC forward Ecua Celestin produced a moment of individual brilliance.
Picking up the ball just outside the Ghana penalty area, Celestin unleashed a perfectly placed strike that flew past goalkeeper Benjamin Asare into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home crowd at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno. The goal gave Chad a well-earned equaliser and dramatically changed the course of the match.
In the final minutes and stoppage time, Ghana pushed hard in search of a winner, but Chad’s defence stood firm to ensure the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate. The draw leaves Ghana still atop Group I but with a smaller margin for error as the qualifiers move into their decisive stages. The Black Stars will now face Mali on Monday, September 8, 2025.