The Accra Sports Stadium will provide the backdrop on Monday as Ghana host Mali in a crucial CAF Group I World Cup qualifier.
With only two rounds left, the Black Stars lead the table but cannot afford slip-ups against a Mali side still firmly in contention for a top-two finish.
Ghana entered the September window with momentum, but a late setback against Chad highlighted both their strengths and vulnerabilities.
That 1-1 draw cost Ghana the chance to extend their cushion at the top, though results elsewhere kept them three points clear of Madagascar and four above Mali.
Otto Addo’s side are still well placed to qualify for back-to-back World Cups, but sharper finishing and greater control in midfield will be needed if they are to avoid more late frustrations.
Home form has been a strong foundation for Ghana’s campaign, with the Black Stars unbeaten in Accra so far in qualifying.
Defensively, they have conceded just five goals in seven games, but their inability to kill off matches has been the main talking point.
With the likes of Kudus and Ayew supporting Oliseh Semenyo in attack, this Ghana side have plenty of quality, but consistency remains the challenge.
For Mali, the picture is equally intriguing. After a stop-start campaign that included too many draws, the Eagles reignited their qualification hopes with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Comoros last time out.
The visitors have proven difficult to beat, losing just once in seven outings, but their three draws have left them playing catch-up.
With the gap to second-placed Madagascar just a single point, Mali know victory in Accra would put them firmly back in the race for automatic qualification.
Both teams arrive with plenty to play for. Ghana are aiming to consolidate their lead and Mali looking to force their way back into contention. The hosts’ firepower, especially in Accra, makes them favourites, but Mali’s defensive organisation and recent attacking revival mean this could be a far tighter contest than the standings suggest.
Credit: sportsmole.co.uk
Group A
Group D
Group E
Congo versus Eritrea Kick-off time to be confirmed
Group G
Group H
Equatorial Guinea 14:00 Tunisia
Group I
