“The game was even, and in the end, our substitutes made the difference” – Otto Addo

Ghana recorded its first win in the entire 2024 in a grand mannner by beating Mali 2-1 in Bamako. Ernest Nuamah’s powerful header cancelled Kamory Doumbia’s first-half strike and substitute Jordan Ayew snatched the winner very late in the game for Ghana.

Ghana celebrated with immense passion because the win was extremely important for everyone in the bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking after the game, head coach Otto Addo revealed that the game was very equal as his side’s fighting spirit was great.

“I think we had a very good fighting spirit, but the game was 50-50; it was even, and in the end, our substitutes made the difference.”

Mali was the best team in the first half and capitalized on their dominance to take the lead. Ghana had their moments in the second half as they were more dangerous and scored twice to defeat the Eagles.

“In this game, I chose this system. In another game, I might choose a different system,” revealed Otto Addo.

Ghana’s head coach revealed that the system he used against Mali will be different from what he will use in other games.

“The game against Central African Republic will now be even more difficult because we will now be expected to win. Mali and Central African Republic play differently, so I might choose a different system,” concluded Otto Addo.

Ghana’s next game is against Central African Republic on Monday in Kumasi and the Black Stars are expected to win to move to 9 points.