Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus strengthened Ghana’s bid for a place at the 2026 Fifa World Cup, while Ivory Coast won to return to the top of their qualifying group.
Four-time continental champions Ghana failed to reach the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations but the Black Stars sit five points clear of second-placed Madagascar in Group I following their 3-0 victory away against the islanders.
Ghana’s cause was also helped as Mali, the top seeds in their group, were held to a goalless draw away against Central African Republic.
The Eagles are third, six points behind Ghana, with four rounds of the 10-game campaign remaining.
Ivory Coast moved to the top of Group F, a point ahead of Gabon, as Sebastien Haller’s first-half header was enough to settle a nervy home encounter with The Gambia.
Only the nine group winners in African qualifying are assured of a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup finals.
The four best second-placed sides will play off for a space at an intercontinental qualifier which will provide the chance for a 10th side to reach the United States, Mexico and Canada.
