Ghana kick-start Afcon 2027 bid despite Ayew penalty miss

What the report says

Ghana revived their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 home victory over Somalia in Sekondi-Takoradi, according to BBC Sport Africa. The result ended a difficult start to Group C for the Black Stars, who had lost their first two matches and recently saw coach Carlos Queiroz leave by mutual consent. Ghana women’s coach Kim Bjorkegren is leading the team on an interim basis for this month’s fixtures.

Jordan Ayew, now with Championship side Sheffield United, had an early chance to put Ghana ahead but saw his first-half penalty saved by Somalia goalkeeper Ibrahim Hussein. Ghana eventually broke through in stoppage time before halftime, when Mohammed Kudus delivered a corner and Mohammed Salisu helped create the opening for Jonas Adjetey to score from close range.

Felix Afena-Gyan added a second goal just after the hour mark, his shot slipping under Hussein and crossing the line. The win keeps Ghana in contention in the group, leaving them three points behind Ivory Coast and The Gambia, who were due to meet later on Thursday. The article notes that Ghana are trying to avoid missing a second straight Afcon finals, underscoring the significance of the result for the four-time continental champions.