Ghana vs Mali: Why Black Stars Are at Risk in Crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

• The Black Stars could be staring at a daunting challenge in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali
• A sports historian and researcher has revealed that the Eagles boast an almost unbreakable record, one that may prove too difficult for Ghana
• Group I will be thrown wide open if Ghana falls short, dealing a heavy blow to the nation’s hopes of securing a place at next year’s Mundial

Don't miss out! Get your daily dose of sports news straight to your phone. Join YEN's Sports News channel on WhatsApp now!

The Black Stars of Ghana head into their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali with a lot at stake.

Once sitting comfortably in pole position, Ghana’s path to the global tournament has suddenly become uncertain.

A frustrating 1-1 draw with lowly-ranked Chad in N’Djamena disrupted the team’s momentum. That slip, against a side placed 175th in the FIFA rankings, left the four-time African champions vulnerable at the top of Group I.

Adding to the pressure, Comoros secured a 2-0 victory over the Central African Republic to move within touching distance.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app!

The Islanders now have 15 points, though they have played one match more than Ghana. Madagascar, who sit on 13 points, face Chad on the same day the Black Stars host Mali in Accra.

Check the standings in Group I:

According to Goal, Mali, unbeaten in their last four qualifiers, arrive with confidence and belief.

The Eagles know a win could catapult them into serious contention, further tightening the group standings.

Mali to beat Ghana due to superstition

As if the pressure was not enough, sports statistician Isaac Amponsah, popularly known as Sir Ike, has suggested the stars may be aligning in Mali’s favour.

Speaking on Ezra 94.1 FM, he revealed that the Eagles have never lost a game played on September 8 since 1972.

Watch the video of Sir Ike's assertion:

What is Mali's record on September 8?

Factsgh backs this with evidence. Mali has featured in two competitive fixtures on that date, winning both while scoring seven goals and keeping clean sheets:

• September 8, 2012: Mali 3–0 Botswana (AFCON Qualifiers)
• September 8, 2023: Mali 4–0 South Sudan (AFCON Qualifiers)

Ghana, however, also carries encouraging signs. The Black Stars have played three matches on September 8 in history, winning twice and losing once, with a record of four goals scored and only one conceded.

Beyond date-specific trivia, Ghana’s legacy in World Cup qualifiers offers strong reassurance.

Since their first attempt in 1960, the Black Stars have played 49 home qualifiers, winning 34, drawing 13, and losing just twice. In that time, they have netted 102 goals and conceded 25.

Only two teams have ever beaten Ghana at home in these qualifiers: Sierra Leone in 1997 and Liberia in 2001.

Both defeats came against West African neighbours — a detail that adds a hint of caution, considering Mali too hails from the same region.

For Ghana, Monday’s showdown is about more than just numbers. It is about reclaiming momentum, silencing doubts, and staying in charge of their destiny.

Four Malians who pose a threat to Ghana

Earlier, YEN.com.gh profiled four Malian players who pose a serious threat to Ghana’s World Cup aspirations.

Despite the absence of midfield pillars Amadou Haidara and Yves Bissouma, coach Tom Saintfiet commands a strong squad, with emerging stars like Kamory Doumbia and Dorgeles Nene ready to step in and make their mark.

Source: YEN.com.gh