Ghana’s Black Stars kicked off the 2023 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers with a 3-0 victory over Madagascar.
Otto Addo’s men took all three points thanks to goals from Kudus Mohammed, Felix Afena-Gyan, and Osman Bulgarian.
After a first half in which Ghana dominated and created numerous chances but failed to score, the game appeared to be heading towards a frustrating conclusion on the Stars’ return to the Cape Coast Stadium.
Poor finishing and a tenacious opponent in Madagascar’s goalkeeper ensured that the game remained scoreless at the half.
The Black Stars continued to dominate at the start of the second half and were rewarded when Kudus tapped into an empty net after a cutback from the right in the 53rd minute.
A few minutes later, Felix Afena-Gyan poked home a loose ball from a Jordan Ayew corner to double the lead.
The Black Stars were in complete control at this point, and they thought they had scored a third when Kudus poked home a Baba Rahman cross.
Ghana kept attacking and deservedly added a third goal when substitute Osman Bukari rounded the Madagascar goalkeeper before finding the back of the net.
There was even time for Mubarak Wakaso, whose inclusion in the squad had been hotly debated all week.
The Black Stars now lead Group E on goal difference, one point ahead of Angola, who defeated CAR 2-1 in the other group game.
