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Mandela Anuvabe

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/real-madrids-vini-jr-traces-ancestry-to-africa-heres-the-country-hes-from-2024112011421198370">Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior</a> is reportedly being investigated by FIFA for allegedly breaking conflict of interest rules by owning stakes in multiple football clubs.

If found guilty, he could face a suspension from professional football for up to two years.

The investigation, first reported by Spanish outlet Marca, claims that FIFA has found evidence suggesting the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/vini-jr-shifts-sole-focus-from-real-madrid-signs-new-club-2025021908521153911">Brazilian star has ownership interests in more than one club</a>. This goes against FIFA’s strict rules, which are meant to protect the fairness and integrity of the sport.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/fifa-engages-gfa-on-clearing-house-regulations-2024081117223627015">According to FIFA regulations</a>, active players are not allowed to own or have control over multiple professional football clubs.

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According to Spanish outlet Marca and Italian journalist&nbsp;Gianluca di Marzio, the Brazilian forward has come under scrutiny following a formal complaint filed by Tiberis Holding do Brasil to FIFA’s Ethics Committee on April 7.

Tiberis previously held a 16.5% stake in Athletic Club of São João del Rei, a Brazilian team recently promoted to Serie B. The company claims it was bypassed in a share acquisition deal, where controlling ownership was allegedly transferred to ALL Agenciamento Esportivo, a company owned by Vinicius and his father, Thacilo Soares.

Vini Jr shifts sole focus from Real Madrid, signs new club

FIFA’s concerns have grown due to Vinicius’s reported connections with Portuguese club Alverca, raising red flags over potential conflicts of interest in international transfers. A recent loan deal involving Rafael Conceição, who moved from São João del Rei to Alverca, is believed to be one of the triggers for the probe.

The maximum penalty for this violation is a two-year suspension. In addition to the risk of being suspended, Vinicius could also face a substantial financial fine and may be forced to relinquish certain shares he currently holds.

At the moment, FIFA has not made an official announcement. Vinícius Júnior and Real Madrid have also not made any public comments. Legal experts believe the case could go on for a while and might end up at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

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Fans have been left shocked, with social media full of reactions, jokes, and debates. Given Vinícius’s huge influence, the outcome of this investigation could have a big impact on football around the world.

Real Madrid’s Vini Jr faces possible two-year ban for alleged FIFA rule breaches

Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior faces a possible two-year ban as FIFA investigates him for allegedly owning multiple football clubs, breaking conflict of interest rules. Details of case...

Christopher Sededzi Kwame

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/which-african-teams-are-on-track-to-reach-the-2026-world-cup-2025031319243407415">The 2026 FIFA World Cup </a>will mark a historic milestone as the tournament expands to include 48 teams for the first time.

So far, seven nations have secured their places in the competition, with 41 slots still up for grabs.

<a class="autolink-enabled" data-resource-id="1435" data-resource-type="team" data-sport="football" href="https://temp-team.com/team-1435">Japan</a> became the first team outside the host nations to qualify, sealing their spot with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain on March 20, 2025.

New Zealand followed suit after defeating New Caledonia 3-0 to claim the OFC Nations Cup title.

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Iran secured their berth with a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25, extending their lead to seven points over third-placed UAE with two matches remaining.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s qualification was mathematically confirmed following Bolivia’s draw with <a class="autolink-enabled" data-resource-id="1903" data-resource-type="team" data-sport="football" href="https://temp-team.com/team-1903">Uruguay</a>, ensuring the reigning champions remain atop the CONMEBOL standings.

Scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, the expanded 48-team format will feature 12 groups of four.

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The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will advance to the knockout round of 32.

<h2>Tournament format and future expansion proposals</h2>

In a separate development, CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez has formally proposed expanding the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams.

The suggestion was initially introduced by a Uruguayan delegate during a recent FIFA Council meeting chaired by President Gianni Infantino, catching European officials by surprise.

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As qualification campaigns continue worldwide, anticipation builds for what promises to be the largest and most inclusive World Cup in history.

Argentina celebrates after winning World Cup

Seven nations have booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with 41 qualification spots still open. Check out the full list of qualified teams and see who’s next in line.

2026 World Cup: 7 nations qualify, 41 spots remain - full list of qualified teams

The United Kingdom is on track to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup after being the only “valid” bidder for the tournament, according to<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/fifa-president-entertains-drake-replying-to-kendrick-lamar-at-world-cup-final-show-2025030710410804525"> FIFA president Gianni Infantino</a>.

England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland submitted a joint expression of interest in March to stage the tournament across the home nations. Under FIFA’s rotation rules, the 2035 World Cup must be held in either Europe or Africa.

Last week, Spain’s federation president, Rafael Louzan, mentioned they were considering a joint bid with Portugal and Morocco.

However, with the deadline for bids passing on Monday, Infantino confirmed that only the UK had officially submitted a bid for 2035, while the United States is set to host the 2031 edition.

Infantino confirmed this at a UEFA congress in Belgrade, and stated below as quoted by the BBC:

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<blockquote>Today I can confirm as part of the bidding process that we received one bid for 2031 and one valid bid for 2035.</blockquote>

<blockquote>The 2031 bid is the United States of America and potentially some other Concacaf members, and the 2035 bid is from Europe and the home nations. So the path is there for the Women’s World Cup in 2031 and 2035 to take place in some great nations and further boost the women’s football movement.</blockquote>

<h2>England FA chief expresses excitement</h2>

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham expressed his excitement, saying:

<blockquote>We are honoured to be the sole bidder for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035. The hard work starts now to put together the best possible bid by the end of the year.</blockquote>

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Formal bids must be submitted this winter, with FIFA set to vote on the host in 2026. If confirmed, it will be the first <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/women-to-commentate-on-euro-2020-2022-world-cup-finals-for-german-radio-2024081209260552436">Women’s World Cup </a>held in the UK and the second <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/world-cup-qatars-human-rights-record-dominated-headlines-whys-usa-rampant-gun-2024111914053297185">World Cup</a> in the home nations since the 1966 men’s tournament in England.

Only nation 'valid' to host 2025 women's World Cup revealed as Africa fail to bid

The UK is set to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup as the only valid bidder, pending FIFA approval. Here's all you must know...

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has filed a lawsuit against journalist Muftawu Nabila Abdulai and Multimedia Group Limited over reports alleging financial misconduct in the<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/24-hours-later-bus-donated-by-gfa-to-hohoe-united-undergoes-repairs-at-fitter-shop-2024112118055714093"> Association’s recent bus procurement</a> deal.

The case, submitted at the High Court in Accra, accuses the journalist and his media company of publishing false and damaging statements that have harmed the reputation of the country’s football governing body.

The controversy began after reports were published on MyJoyOnline.com and aired on Joy News and Joy FM on 4 March 2025.

These reports claimed that the GFA had awarded a GH₵5.1 million contract to Freightgistics Ghana Company Ltd for the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/mallam-to-accra-trotro-paa-ghanaians-disappointed-with-buses-donated-to-clubs-by-gfa-2024112108194839995">purchase of nine Hyundai County buses.</a>

The reports further alleged that the Association used FIFA Forward funds for the procurement, bypassing competitive bidding requirements and breaching procurement rules.

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Additionally, accusations were made that the GFA had altered Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), also known as chassis numbers, to mislead revenue authorities.

A follow-up report on 10 March 2025 raised further concerns, alleging that the GFA had imported 40 mattresses in one of the containers used to<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/mallam-to-accra-trotro-paa-ghanaians-disappointed-with-buses-donated-to-clubs-by-gfa-2024112108194839995"> deliver the buses</a>.

These claims intensified suspicions regarding the transparency of the procurement process. The reports also suggested that the purchase violated FIFA’s procurement regulations, which require contracts exceeding $50,000 to go through an open and competitive bidding process.

GFA President delivers buses to Division One League Clubs

As part of its legal action, the GFA is demanding a full and public retraction of all reports related to the issue, with the retraction receiving the same level of attention as the original publications.

The Association is also seeking an official apology to be broadcast on Joy FM and Joy News TV, as well as published on MyJoyOnline.com and across all Multimedia Group social media platforms.

In addition, the GFA is requesting a court order to prevent Multimedia Group and its journalist from making further defamatory statements regarding the Association.

The lawsuit also includes a demand for financial compensation of GH₵20 million, arguing that the reports were published with reckless disregard for the truth, causing reputational harm.

The GFA insists that the journalist and media company acted with malice by not offering the Association a fair opportunity to respond before publication. The Association is also seeking reimbursement for all legal costs associated with the case.

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So far, Multimedia Group and Muftawu Nabila Abdulai have not made any public statements regarding the lawsuit.

GFA sues journalist, Multimedia Group over bus reports, demands GH₵20 million

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has sued journalist Muftawu Nabila Abdulai and Multimedia Group over reports alleging financial misconduct in a bus procurement deal. Here's all you need to know...

After winning back-to-back matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Ghana have moved up in the FIFA rankings for the first time since July 2024.

The Black Stars now hold the 76th spot in the world rankings, having been in <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/black-stars/ghana-slips-four-more-places-to-77th-in-november-fifa-rankings-2024112817381117467">77th place since November 2024</a>. This is their first rise in the rankings since moving from 64th to 60th in July 2024.

Ghana's<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/5-key-lessons-from-ghanas-double-win-against-chad-and-madagascar-2025032509501599388"> victories over Chad and Madagascar</a> have helped them climb above Israel, who have dropped two places.

Despite this improvement in the global rankings, Ghana’s position in Africa remains the same. They still sit 14th among African teams.

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Coach Otto Addo will hope his team improves further when they face Nigeria in the Unity Cup 2025, a thrilling West African derby in London.

The <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/ghana-to-face-nigeria-in-2025-unity-cup-details-2025040215110655027">Black Stars will meet the Super Eagles</a> on Wednesday, 28 May 2025, in a match full of excitement. Ghana previously beat Nigeria 4-1 in London, but Nigeria, who have won the Unity Cup twice, will be eager to take revenge.

The Unity Cup, making a return after a long break, features four teams: Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.

The tournament begins with the "TriniJam" clash on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, as Trinidad and Tobago take on Jamaica to decide the best team from the West Indies.

The competition ends on Saturday, 31 May 2025, with two final matches; a third-place playoff and the grand final. The winner of the Unity Cup 2025 will be crowned on that day.

After that, the Black Stars will&nbsp;travel first to take on Chad away before hosting Mali in the September clashes.

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Thereafter, their last qualifying games will be an away encounter with Central African Republic before welcoming Comoros for the final battle on home soil.

Ghana rise in the FIFA rankings after back-to-back wins in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Ghana move up in latest FIFA rankings for the first time in almost a year

Ghana center-back Jerome Opoku is optimistic about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but maintains it won’t be an easy task.

The four-time African champions fought back from their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, to secure <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/5-key-lessons-from-ghanas-double-win-against-chad-and-madagascar-2025032509501599388">two crucial wins against Chad and Madagascar</a>, with Opoku featuring in both games.

These wins saw Ghana climb to Group I’s summit with 15 points – three more than second-placed Comoros. The 26-year-old says he’s very confident the Black Stars will be on the plane to North America next year.

He made these comments in an <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.flashscore.com.gh/news/soccer-world-championship-exclusive-jerome-opoku-reflects-on-full-black-stars-debut-and-2026-world-cup-dreams/8SxVIcO8/">exclusive interview with Flashscore.com.gh</a>.

<blockquote>I am 200% confident of qualifying. That’s the aim and dream. We know it’s not job done yet and it won’t be easy, but we will fight hard till the end to ensure that we secure the necessary and needed points to be first in the group and qualify for the World Cup.</blockquote>

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Opoku added that the team remains focus on performing at their utmost best and securing the needed points in their last four qualifying games.

<blockquote>We are working diligently to improve our game and ensure we secure the necessary results in the remaining matches to qualify for the World Cup. We remain focused on the task ahead and believe that we will achieve our goal.</blockquote>

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The Istanbul Basaksehir defender played 10 minutes in the 5-0 thrashing of Chad and made his full competitive debut as one of the three starting center backs in Otto Addo’s 3-5-2 system, that coasted to a <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/ghana-defeat-madagascar-by-3-goals-with-goals-from-partey-kudus-2025032421174410778">3-0 victory over the Barea</a>.

‘It won’t be easy’ - Jerome Opoku on Ghana’s chances of qualifying for 2026 World Cup

Jerome Opoku opens up about Ghana's chances of qualifying for a fifth FIFA World Cup. He's very confident but says it won't be easy because...

Benjamin Asare’s journey to becoming Ghana’s number one goalkeeper is a story of perseverance, hard work, and the support of someone who saw potential in him when few others did.

It all started in the heart of Ghana, where a young Asare, struggling financially, played football without the comfort of a steady income or transport to get him to training sessions.

But it was during this challenging time that Annor Walker, then the coach of Great Olympics, first saw the spark in Asare.

At the time, Asare was playing for Sporting Mirren, and though his talent was undeniable, he faced an uphill battle. His dream of playing professionally seemed distant, with financial hardships hindering his progress.

But Walker, with his keen eye for talent, didn’t let that go unnoticed. He saw something in the goalkeeper that others might have missed; raw potential and the hunger to succeed.

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Walker, who had a reputation for developing players, approached Asare with an offer to join Great Olympics.

It wasn’t an easy offer; the club, like Asare, was facing its own set of challenges. Despite the financial struggles at Great Olympics, Walker was determined to give Asare the support he needed to grow.

Walker recalled in an interview with Takoradi-based Oil City Radio how he had to come through for the goalkeeper.

<blockquote>There were financial challenges, but I told him I would support him.</blockquote>

Walker’s commitment went beyond just coaching. Sometimes after training session, when Asare had no way to get home, Walker would give him transport fare.

His breakthrough moment came when he joined Hearts of Oak, where he continued to impress with his consistent performances. But his biggest stage came<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/ghana-player-rating-vs-madagascar-benjamin-asare-810-partey-910-semenyo-average-2025032506535955255"> when he donned the Black Stars jersey</a>.

<h2>Benjamin Asare impresses on Black Stars debut</h2>

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Asare stood tall in goal for Ghana, earning praise for keeping&nbsp;two clean sheets, and earning the trust of coach Otto Addo, who confirmed that<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/hes-the-number-one-otto-addo-confirms-asare-as-black-stars-first-choice-goalie-2025032507213544366"> Asare would remain the first-choice goalkeeper</a> for the national team.

Reflecting on Asare’s journey, Walker believes everything fell into place at the right time.

<blockquote>We always say God's time is the best, so I believe this is the right time for Benjamin Asare.</blockquote>

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Now,<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/benjamin-asare-shares-emotional-message-after-impressive-ghana-debut-at-32-2025032510272363616"> Asare must perform</a> consistently to keep his spot as Ghana’s number one goalkeeper ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

How Benjamin Asare went from not having Trotro fare to becoming Ghana’s number one

Benjamin Asare's journey from financial struggles to becoming Ghana's number one goalkeeper is a story of perseverance and support. Former Great Olympic's coach tells the tale...

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has launched a formal investigation into serious match-fixing allegations concerning veteran goalkeeper Patrick Matasi.

The 37-year-old shot-stopper, currently with Kenyan Premier League side Kakamega Homeboyz and holder of over 30 international caps, faces scrutiny after an unverified video surfaced online.

The controversial footage, which BBC Sport Africa has not independently authenticated, appears to show Matasi engaged in discussions about influencing a league match outcome.

His most recent national team appearance was during Kenya's October 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

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Kakamega Homeboyz owner Cleophas Shimanyula revealed he has personally discussed the allegations with Matasi, stating:

<blockquote>I have spoken with him, and he was equally surprised by what he saw in the video. He insists he is unaware of any match-fixing.</blockquote>

The FKF has committed to a thorough inquiry in collaboration with global and continental football authorities.

In an official statement, the federation emphasised:

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<blockquote>We uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards match manipulation and remain committed to maintaining the integrity of our competitions.</blockquote>

The investigation will proceed under both FKF's anti-match manipulation protocols and FIFA guidelines, with assurances of complete transparency and due process.

The federation has pledged to respect all parties' rights while vowing appropriate action based on findings.

<h2>Performance record cited in player's defence</h2>

Shimanyula highlighted Matasi's on-field contributions since joining the club, noting three consecutive clean sheets in recent matches.

He asserted, while acknowledging the potential for video manipulation.

<blockquote>When we watched this video, we found that Matasi has not wronged the club.</blockquote>

The club owner maintained they would continue fielding Matasi unless presented with concrete evidence, stating:

<blockquote>He will keep playing for us because there's no wrongdoing on his part as far as we are concerned – unless there's evidence or the FKF writes to us to say they are suspecting the player of some wrongdoing.</blockquote>

<h2>Appeal for evidence and whistleblower protection</h2>

Both FKF and Kakamega Homeboyz have called for any substantiating evidence to be submitted confidentially.

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Shimanyula referenced the club's previous actions against match-fixing, saying: "

In the past we've reported match-fixing regarding some of our players who fixed a game with the coach, and punishments were handed down by FIFA."

The club maintains its own monitoring systems but has challenged critics to provide proof, with Shimanyula declaring:

<blockquote>As Kakamega Homeboyz, we are asking anyone who has evidence of Matasi fixing a game to bring it forward.</blockquote>

The football community awaits further developments as this high-profile investigation progresses.

Kenya national team keeper Patrick Matasi under match-fixing probe

FKF investigates Kenya goalkeeper Patrick Matasi over match-fixing allegations after a viral video.

Ghana coasted to a <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/ghana-defeat-madagascar-by-3-goals-with-goals-from-partey-kudus-2025032421174410778">comfortable 3-0 win over Madagascar</a> to strengthen their chances of securing automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

A hat-trick of assists from Jordan Ayew, a brace of headers from Thomas Partey, and a much-awaited goal by Mohammed Kudus meant the Black Stars are now in pole position to qualify from Group I.

Black Stars started the game om the front foot, making their intentions clear early with Kudus breaking away from the Barea's defense before it was called as an offside in the opening five minutes.

The game's physicality was evident from the first whistle with both sides getting offensive freekicks by the fifth minute.

However, it was Ghana who nearly grabbed the opener through theirs, but Mohammed Salisu's touch on<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/we-will-turn-things-around-black-stars-captain-jordan-ayew-assures-ghanaians-2025031919263091741"> skipper Ayew's </a>freekick rolled past the goalpost.

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Salisu was in action again but this time on defensive duties as he was forced to foul a Madagascar player after scantily losing possession. Madagascar's bench felt he should've seen the game's first booking, but the referee spared him.

10 minutes in, Partey connected beautifully with Ayew's excellent freekick to give Ghana the lead.

A moment of lost concentration nearly saw Ghana extend their lead as Kudus' weak foot strike was saved by the Malagasy goalkeeper.

What followed to the half-hour mark was end-to-end stuff as the game's intensity grew. This was evident as the referee had to issue caution to Madagascar's bench for complaining about what they deemed an unfair decision.

They quickly bounced back from that, but the Madagascar captain's long-range shot was deflected for a corner kick a minute past the half-hour mark.

Kudus' appeal for a penalty was dismissed by the referee just before the close of the first half.

Ghana held on to their lone goal lead into the break despite being shaky for most of the half after taking the lead.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">✅ 3 points. 3 goals. 5 points clear at the top. Back-to-back wins. 🔥🇬🇭 Onward we go! 🫡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackStars</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWCQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWCQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/NZE5VdgLzC">pic.twitter.com/NZE5VdgLzC</a>&mdash; 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaBlackstars/status/1904275957143278008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Black Stars kill off game in intense second halfd</h2>

After recess, the Black Stars began the second half as the first with consecutive goal attempts. Arsenal midfielder Partey seemed to have taken his set piece lessons from Nicolas Jover seriously having latched on another Ayew set piece to extend the Black Stars' lead. He headed home a 53rd-minute corner kick to down the spirits of the Barea.

Kudus finally found his much-awaited goal with a one-touch kick pass the goalkeeper after Ayew's line-breaking pass found him.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/black-stars-squad-for-chad-madagascar-clashes-announced-benjamin-asare-gets-deserved-nod-2025031408282733079">Benjamin Asare was forced </a>to make a brilliant save at minute 74 and grew confident by grabbing a few air balls during the final few minutes after being on a virtual holiday for a chunk of the game.

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Madagascar kept pushing but was unable to find a consolation even after five additional minutes were added on.

Ayew ready to Partey as Ghana break the Barea of Madagascar with 3 goals

Black Stars of Ghana defeat Madagascar to increase their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Match report...

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has emphasised that Ghana’s upcoming match against Chad in the 2026<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/fifa-plans-64-team-world-cup-for-2030-centenary-celebration-2025030709372467252"> FIFA World Cup </a>qualifiers will not be an easy encounter, despite acknowledging that Chad is not considered a top-tier team.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Addo stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and called on Ghanaians to rally behind the team as they aim to secure a crucial victory.

MUST READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/world-cup-qualifiers-ghana-vs-chad-black-stars-probable-line-up-against-les-sao-2025031914592649856">World Cup Qualifiers: Ghana vs Chad - Black Stars probable line-up against Les Sao&nbsp;</a>

<blockquote>I know Chad is not a top team, but believe me, it’s not going to be easy</blockquote>

He further appealed to Ghanaians for their support, saying,

<blockquote>We need all the support we can get.</blockquote>

The Black Stars are focused on securing vital points in the Group I qualifier ahead of their subsequent match against Madagascar.

<h2>Michael Essien hopeful Ghana will win trophy</h2>

In related news, former Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien has expressed optimism about Ghana’s ability to end its 43-year trophy drought.

READ ALSO:<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/ahmed-suale-murder-suspect-admits-taking-photos-denies-selling-them-to-agyapong-2025032007232768481"> Ahmed Suale Murder: Suspect admits&nbsp;taking&nbsp;photos, denies selling them to Agyapong</a>

Ghana’s last major triumph came in 1982 when the team clinched its fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title by defeating Libya 7-6 on penalties.

Essien, however, remains hopeful that the country will once again lift a trophy in the near future in an interview with Sporty FM.

“I think so. It just has to happen. When is that going to happen? I don’t know, but it sure will happen.”

<blockquote>It's been a long time since we won a trophy, but we will get there, I believe.</blockquote>

The Black Stars recently faced disappointment after failing to qualify for the 2022 AFCON tournament, marking the first time in 20 years and the ninth time in the nation’s history that Ghana missed out on the continental competition.

Despite these setbacks, both Addo and Essien remain committed to rebuilding the team’s legacy and achieving future success.

Black Stars game against Chad won't be easy - Otto Addo

Patrice Evra has strongly defended France manager Didier Deschamps, accusing FIFA of practically gifting Lionel Messi and Argentina the 2022 World Cup.

The former Manchester United player also expressed frustration over the growing focus on Zinédine Zidane potentially replacing Deschamps as the French national team manager.

Speaking to RMC Sport, Evra did not hold back in expressing his discontent with the treatment of Deschamps, who has guided France to multiple finals.

Although <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/football/didier-deschamps-to-leave-france-national-team-head-coach-job-after-2026-world-cup-2025010815275102173">Deschamps has announced his decision to step down</a> after the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/kurt-okraku-is-working-hard-to-ensure-ghana-qualify-for-2026-world-cup-asamoah-gyan-2025031918151386940">2026 World Cup</a>, speculation about his replacement has already begun, with Zidane emerging as the favourite, even receiving hints of approval from Kylian Mbappé. For Evra, this shift in focus is a sign of disrespect.

<blockquote>I find that there is a huge lack of respect towards Didier Deschamps given that we are talking about another national team manager while he is still in place.</blockquote>

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/sports/meet-kirsty-coventry-the-young-african-woman-whos-now-the-most-powerful-person-in-world-sports-2025032018204868434">Meet the young African woman who’s now the most powerful person in world sports</a>

He also questioned the eagerness to move on from a manager who has led France to the latter stages of every major tournament.

<blockquote>Are we not spoiled kids? Can people not stand being in the semi-final or final of every tournament? Do you prefer us to win or to play beautiful football?</blockquote>

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<h2>Evra claims 2022 World Cup was prepared for Messi</h2>

Beyond the Zidane talk, Evra stirred controversy by suggesting that FIFA had already decided Messi would lift the 2022 World Cup.

Patrice Evra defends Didier Deschamps and claims FIFA had already decided Lionel Messi would win the 2022 World Cup, criticising the treatment of France's manager. These are his claims...

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