Chad snatched a dramatic point in N’Djamena after Ecua Celestin’s stunning late strike earned them a 1-1 draw with Ghana in Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
With the Black Stars moments away from securing victory, the Young Africans forward lit up the Stade Olympique Marechal Idriss Deby Itno in the 89th minute.
Picking the ball just outside the box, Celestin unleashed a sensational effort that flew past goalkeeper Benjamin Asare and sent the home crowd into raptures.
It was a fitting reward for Chad’s resilience under new coach Raoul Savoy, whose restructured side looked a far cry from the team humiliated 5-0 in Accra earlier this year.
The opener arrived in the 17th minute when Jordan Ayew extended his impressive scoring streak with a sixth goal of the campaign. Mohammed Kudus, filled with flair and creativity, skipped past his marker on the right and delivered a precise low cross. Ayew’s clever positioning made the finish look simple, handing Otto Addo’s men an early lead.
Ghana looked the stronger side for much of the game and created several opportunities to extend their lead, but luck deserted them in front of goal.
Despite dominating possession throughout, their play lacked cutting edge, with too many back passes instead of pushing forward to secure a bigger advantage.
Ghana threw everything forward in stoppage time in search of a winner, yet Chad’s backline held its ground with grit and determination. Celestin’s brilliance punished the Black Stars’ missed chances, leaving Otto Addo’s men frustrated despite still sitting at the top of Group I; with crucial qualifiers looming large.
By Jesse Otoo
Fixtures & Previews
Group A
Group B
Group C
Group E
Group F
Group G
Group H
Namibia 14:00 Malawi
