Ghana recorded their first victory in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a convincing 2-0 triumph over Somalia at the Essipong Sports Stadium, breathing new life into their qualification campaign.

The Black Stars, who were under pressure to respond following their difficult start to the qualifying series, delivered a composed performance to secure all three points, with Jonas Adjetey and Felix Afena-Gyan getting on the scoresheet.

Ghana had an opportunity to take an early lead in the 13th minute after Alidu Seidu was brought down inside the penalty area. However, captain Jordan Ayew failed to convert from the spot, missing the opportunity to put the hosts ahead.

The missed penalty did little to dampen Ghana’s attacking ambitions as they continued to dictate proceedings and search for the breakthrough.

Their persistence eventually paid off towards the closing stages of the first half when Jonas Adjetey rose highest to connect with a delivery into the box, directing a powerful header beyond the Somali goalkeeper to hand Ghana the lead.

The Black Stars maintained their attacking intensity after the interval and doubled their advantage in the 61st minute through Felix Afena-Gyan, who found the back of the net to put the hosts firmly in control.

Afena-Gyan was subsequently substituted as Ghana made changes to manage the encounter and preserve their two-goal advantage.

The victory represents a timely boost for the four-time African champions as they seek to regain their footing in the race for qualification to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Ghana will now shift their attention to the return fixture against Somalia on November 16, 2026, with the Black Stars aiming to build on their impressive home performance and secure another positive result in the qualifying campaign.