Jordan Ayew wowed spectators at Kumasi’s Baba Yara Stadium with a magnificent hat-trick, securing Ghana’s emphatic 4-3 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR).
This electric performance lifted the Black Stars to the top of Group I in the World Cup qualifying campaign, bolstering their intimidating presence at home.
The Crystal Palace forward, who had previously come off the bench to score the winner against Mali, was given a starting role against the Wild Beasts.
Ayew wasted no time making an impact. Just six minutes into the game, Fatawu Issahaku, also rewarded with a starting position for his stellar performance in the last match, won a penalty. Ayew coolly converted, setting the tone for a goal-filled evening.
Despite Ghana’s early lead, CAR’s Louis Mafouta quickly turned the tide. Mafouta found the net twice, in the 11th and 41st minutes, to give the visitors a surprising 2-1 lead going into halftime. His brace silenced the home crowd and posed a significant challenge for the Black Stars.
The second half saw a determined Ghana side emerge from the locker room. On the hour mark, Ayew capitalized on a well-delivered cross from Gideon Mensah to level the score. Just two minutes later, Issahaku found the net, giving Ghana a 3-2 lead and igniting the stadium with renewed energy.
Jordan Ayew wasn’t finished yet. After Mohammed Kudus’s shot was blocked, Ayew seized the rebound and completed his hat-trick, solidifying Ghana’s lead.
Mafouta managed to pull one back for CAR with a powerful strike, but it wasn’t enough to deny Ghana’s triumph.
This exciting victory propels Ghana to the top of Group I with nine points, maintaining their dominance at the Baba Yara Stadium, where they have lost only one World Cup qualifier.
The victory also demonstrated the Black Stars’ perseverance and offensive prowess, which is critical as they strive for a place in the 2024 World Cup.
Related Article:
https://3news.com/sports/football/jordan-ayew-hat-trick-sends-ghana-top-of-group-i/
https://theirsondiary.com/last-minute-goal-from-jordan-ayew-gives-ghana-the-advantage-over-mali/
