At the halfway point of the campaign, the Black Stars lead Group I by two points, with Madagascar close behind.
With only one team from each group earning automatic qualification for the World Cup, this top-of-the-table showdown is a high-stakes six-pointer.
The four-time Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions narrowly defeated Madagascar in the reverse fixture thanks to a late goal from Inaki Williams - his first for Ghana.
Now, with just four games remaining after this match, head coach Otto Addo has emphasized its importance, calling it “a small final.”
Speaking at a press conference, Addo stated: “Everyone needs to be on their toes. This is like a small final, and if we win, we are really on course. Madagascar is a strong team, and it will be a tough game.”
Addo is right. A victory over the Barea would put Ghana five points clear of Madagascar and significantly boost their chances of securing World Cup qualification.
In other Group I matches, Comoros host Chad while Mali travel to face the Central African Republic. If both favourites win, Ghana will maintain a three-point lead over Comoros and a four-point lead over Mali - both teams are still scheduled to play Ghana in Accra later in the qualifiers.
Previously in the qualifiers, Ghana have beaten Mali 2-1 in Bamako but lost 1-0 to Comoros away. The Black Stars will host Mali on Matchday 8 and welcome Comoros on the final matchday.
While their dominant 5-0 victory over Chad last Friday was impressive, it will mean little if they fail to capitalize on their momentum against Madagascar. A win would not only strengthen their lead but also eliminate Madagascar from contention.
After the game against Madagascar, Ghana’s next fixture is against Chad in September - a chance to build a rare winning streak before facing tougher opponents like Mali and Comoros.
With qualification in Group I likely requiring around 20-22 points, Ghana’s current tally of 12 means they need at least 10 points from their remaining five games. Wins against Madagascar and Chad would leave them needing just four points from their final three matches against Mali (H), Central African Republic (A), and Comoros (H) to seal qualification.
This match against Madagascar on Monday is pivotal; anything less than three points could throw Group I wide open.
The Black Stars must approach the game with absolute focus and determination to secure victory against a Madagascar side they’ve consistently outperformed in recent years.
With history on their side and an opportunity to take control of their destiny, Ghana must rise to the occasion under the bright lights of Al Hoceima Stadium in Morocco.
The Black Star Watch is a compelling weekly column written by Owuraku Ampofo, a seasoned sports journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Ghanaian players. This column aims to uncover patterns, address pressing questions, and illuminate trending topics surrounding Ghanaian footballers.
