Côte d’Ivoire scored twice in the final minutes to beat Somalia 2-0 and pile more pressure on Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The Elephants struggled for most of the match to break down a stubborn Somali defence. It wasn’t until the 88th minute that Yann Ghoho finally found the net, breaking the deadlock and sending the home fans into a frenzy.
Just as the game looked to be closing out, Bazamouna Touré added a second in added time to secure all three points for Côte d’Ivoire. The late goals lifted the Elephants to six points from their first two matches in Group C.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s position in the group worsened after they suffered a 4-2 loss at home to The Gambia earlier on the same day. The Black Stars remain on zero points after two games, placing them at the bottom of the group.
The Gambia leads Group C on goal difference, with Côte d’Ivoire second. Ghana trails behind both teams, a situation that leaves coach Carlos Queiroz’s side with an uphill battle to qualify for the tournament.
Côte d’Ivoire now look well placed to strengthen their hold on qualification when they face The Gambia in a double-header in November. Winning both games would take them to 12 points, putting them close to securing a spot in the 2027 AFCON, depending on other results.
Ghana’s early stumbles in the group have added urgency to their campaign. After back-to-back losses, they must regroup quickly to keep their tournament hopes alive. The upcoming matches will test the Black Stars’ resolve as they try to avoid an early exit from the qualifying race.
According to Joy Online.
