A crucial World Cup qualifying showdown looms in Group I as Cape Verde host Ghana, with the Black Stars determined to take a major step toward securing their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Softfootball reports.
Ghana enter this fixture in good form, sitting comfortably atop Group I with 19 points from eight matches. After a cagey 1-1 draw against Chad and a 1-0 win over Mali in September, Otto Addo’s men have gone six matches unbeaten a run that has reignited national belief that the team can return back to its best. Their only defeat of the qualifiers came against Comoros last November, but since then, Ghana have looked organized, efficient, and motivated.
Adding to Ghana’s growing morale is the presence of Antoine Semenyo, who has been in superb form for Bournemouth in the Premier League. His outstanding performances have not only earned him praises from fans but also from manager Andoni Iraola. Semenyo’s directness, pace, and physicality could prove pivotal in breaking down Cape Verde’s defense.
For the Central African Republic, this match is all about pride. Eloge Enza Yamissi’s team has endured a tough run, losing five of their last six games and failing to find the net in any of their previous five. Consecutive 2-0 defeats to Madagascar and Comoros have left them sitting fifth in the table with just five points from eight matches.
Their only bright moment came back in June 2024, when they edged Chad 1-0. But defensive issues have followed them all through the qualifiers, with 17 goals conceded the second-worst record in the group. Up against a Ghana side in fine form, Les Fauves will need a flawless performance to end their campaign on a positive note.
Team News
Ghana will look to one of their brightest stars, Mohammed Kudus, who has continued to rise to the occasion whenever his country needs him. The dynamic forward is coming off scoring the winner for Tottenham Hotspur in their 2–1 Premier League win over Leeds United last weekend, and Ghanaians will once again look to him for inspiration as they aim to reach their third consecutive World Cup tournament.
Meanwhile, Ghana via its official X handle, provided a crucial update on the teams preparation for the crucial away clash against Central Africa Republic, with a multiple videos showing the team players preparing to train on the pitch after arriving in CAR earlier that day, watch the videos below;
Furthermore, in attack Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo are expected to partner Kudus, forming a dangerous front line full of pace and finishing prowess. Thomas Partey’s return offers composure in midfield, while the defense line remains largely unchanged.
Cape Verde, on the other hand, will rely heavily on striker Mafouta and playmaker Yawanendji to carry their attacking threat. The Blue Sharks have no major injury concerns ahead of the match.
Possible Lineups
Central African Republic possible starting lineup:
Abimala; F Yangoa, Gambor, Miambaye, Basse-Zokana, Beyissa; Oualengbe, Gusset; Yawanendji; Djimet, Mafouta
Ghana possible starting lineup:
Asare; Adjetey, Djiku, Salisu; Yirenkyi, Sibo, Partey, Mensah; Semenyo, Ayew, Kudus
Interestingly, Amidst the preparations for the upcoming match against Central African republic, the team via its official X handle, shared an exclusive video showing Asamoah Gyan, Black stars former captain who was part of the team that saw ghana become the first african country to progress to the quarter finals of a senior FIFA world cup, meet with current captain of the side Jordan ayew after the team arrived at Central African Republic for this monster showdown, watch the video below;
SoftFootball Prediction
Cape Verde are a very physical side, but Ghana’s current form and the attacking quality of Kudus and Semenyo may prove too strong. Expect the Black Stars to control possession, create chances, and find the breakthrough when it matters most.
Predicition: Cape Verde 1–2 Ghana
