The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Africa’s Group I just got tighter after Comoros stunned the Central African Republic with a composed 2-0 victory on Sunday, September 7, in Meknes, Morocco.

Veteran talisman Youssouf M’Changama, at 35, rolled back the years with an ice-cool finish in the 20th minute to set the Coelacanths on their way. Soon after, striker Myziane Maolida of Al-Kholood doubled the lead before halftime, leaving CAR chasing shadows for the rest of the contest.

With their resolute defending and controlled second-half display, Comoros sealed three priceless points, moving to 15 points from eight matches—just a point behind leaders Ghana, though having played a game more. The islanders’ dream of a first-ever World Cup appearance is alive and roaring.

Pressure Shifts to Accra

The victory puts Ghana under the spotlight as they prepare for a mouth-watering clash against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday. Otto Addo’s Black Stars sit narrowly top with 16 points, but Comoros’ win means anything short of victory could swing momentum in the group.

Madagascar, lurking with 13 points from seven matches, and Mali with 12, also remain firmly in the hunt. With only group winners guaranteed automatic qualification and just four best runners-up advancing to the play-offs, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

⚔️ Ghana vs Mali: History Favors Stars, but Eagles Soar Too

This will be the 26th meeting between Ghana and Mali. Historically, Ghana edge it with 12 wins to Mali’s six, while seven clashes have ended all square. Yet recent duels tell a tighter tale: in their last 15 meetings, Ghana have won six, Mali five, with four draws.

With so much history, rivalry, and a World Cup dream on the line, Monday’s showdown in Accra is more than a qualifier—it’s a potential group decider.