Ghana finally get points against Somalia

Ghana's Black Stars finally have something to celebrate in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign after securing a 2–0 victory over Somalia on Thursday, November 12, 2026.

The win at the Essipong Sports Stadium in Sekondi gave Ghana their first three points in Group C after losing their opening two qualifying matches against Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia.

It was a much-needed result for the four-time African champions, who had been under pressure following their disappointing start to the campaign.

However, the victory did not come without a few difficult moments.

##How the Match Unfolded

Ghana started the match with the intention of taking control, creating opportunities and putting Somalia under pressure.

Their first major opportunity came in the 14th minute when captain Jordan Ayew stepped forward to take a penalty. Unfortunately for the home supporters, his effort was saved by Somalia goalkeeper Ibrahim Hussein.

The missed penalty briefly increased the tension, as Somalia continued to defend in an organised manner and made it difficult for Ghana to find an opening.

Ghana eventually broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. Jonas Adjetey rose to head home from a corner delivered by Mohammed Kudus, giving the Black Stars a 1–0 advantage.

The hosts continued to push after the break and found their second goal in the 62nd minute. Mohammed Kudus played an important role in the move, setting up Felix Afena-Gyan, who finished to make it 2–0.

Despite a few attempts from Somalia, Ghana maintained their advantage until the final whistle.

##Why the Victory Mattered

The result was about more than just adding three points to Ghana's qualification campaign.

After defeats to Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia, the Black Stars needed a positive response to keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 AFCON alive.

The victory moved Ghana to third place in Group C with three points, putting them back into the competition after starting without a point.

It also gave interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren a winning start in competitive football following the departure of Carlos Queiroz.

Another important achievement was the end of Ghana's three-year wait for an AFCON qualifying victory. Their previous win in the competition's qualifiers had come in November 2023.

For the players and supporters, the result offered some relief after a difficult period.

##What Comes Next for Ghana?

Ghana will not have much time to celebrate because another meeting with Somalia is already scheduled for Monday, November 16.

The return fixture gives the Black Stars another opportunity to collect three important points and improve their position in Group C.

However, they will need to approach the game with the same determination and avoid assuming that another victory will come easily.

Somalia will also be hoping to respond after the defeat, making the next encounter another important test for both sides.

For Ghana, the immediate priority is to build on this result. The 2–0 victory has restored some confidence, but the team still has work to do if it wants to secure a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Black Stars have finally opened their points account. Now, the challenge is to maintain that momentum.