Ghana were denied victory by Chad Thursday afternoon in N’Djamena, suffering a heartbreak in the dying moments of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The Black Stars took an early lead in the 17th minute through a brilliant effort from Mohammed Kudus, who set up captain Jordan Ayew for the opener.
Kudus dribbled past Chad’s defense with flair down the right flank before delivering a low cross that found a composed Ayew, who made no mistake in slotting home.
With the clock ticking into the 89th minute, Ghana thought they had secured all three points, only to be stunned when Young Africans forward Celestine Ecua delivered a dramatic equalizer for the home side.
Ecua picked up the ball deep in Ghana’s half and unleashed a powerful strike that deflected off a Ghanaian defender, beating goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.
The goal sent supporters at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno into a frenzy, igniting a charged atmosphere.
Coach Otto Addo responded by introducing fresh legs in search of a winner, but Chad held firm, solidifying their backline to preserve the draw.
Despite the setback, Ghana remain top of Group I with 16 points and will now turn their attention to Monday’s crucial home clash against Mali on September 8.
