Ghana vs Mali World Cup Qualifier: Otto Addo Confirms Black Stars Starting Lineup

• Ghana boss Otto Addo has revealed his Black Stars starting lineup for tonight’s World Cup qualifier against the Eagles of Mali
• Captain Jordan Ayew once again leads the Black Stars, fresh from their 1-1 stalemate with Chad on September 4
• Anything less than a win against Mali could be detrimential for Ghana's FIFA World Cup 2026 hopes

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The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters a decisive stage tonight as Ghana lock horns with Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Otto Addo confirming his Black Stars starting lineup for the crucial test.

Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM GMT, and the stakes could not be higher. Ghana currently lead Group I with 16 points, but the margin is slim as Comoros and Madagascar are breathing down their necks.

Meanwhile, Tom Saintfiet's Mali, sitting on 12 points, know that a victory in Accra will reignite their qualification charge. With only three games left, this clash could define the group, according to ESPN.

Ghana vs. Mali: Black Stars under pressure to win

The Black Stars arrive with mixed emotions, with their last outing, a 1-1 draw away to Chad, feeling more like a defeat after a stoppage-time equaliser wiped out Jordan Ayew’s opener.

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The result exposed the Black Stars' team struggles to kill off games, something Otto Addo must fix if his side are to keep control of their destiny.

According to 11 v 11, Ghana have historically dominated with 12 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses in 25 prior meetings.

However, recent results reflect a more balanced rivalry: over the last five encounters, both teams have notched two wins apiece plus a draw, showing that the Eagles are no longer overawed by the Black Stars.

Meanwhile, Ghana will miss the energy of young midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana (injury) and the suspended Elisha Owusu, but the good news is that Thomas Partey is back to full fitness and ready to anchor the midfield with his invaluable experience.

Ghana starting XI vs. Mali

To respond to these setbacks and inject fresh energy, Otto Addo has made changes to the team that drew against Chad on September 4 in N'Djamena.

His selections underline both the urgency and ambition surrounding tonight’s clash, as Ghana look to protect their proud home record and tighten their grip on Group I.

Ghana XI vs. Mali: GK Benjamin Asare; Caleb Yirenkyi, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, Jonas Adjetey, Gideon Mensah; Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo; Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo; Jordan Ayew.

How to watch Ghana vs. Mali

YEN.com.gh earlier provided details about the full list of TV channels and legal online platforms that will telecast the Ghana vs. Mali World Cup qualifier showdown.

Unfortunately, Ghana Television (GTV) will not broadcast tonight’s qualifier, leaving many local fans frustrated as they seek alternative platforms to follow the action.

Source: YEN.com.gh