Cagliari’s rising star Ibrahim Sulemana couldn’t hide his excitement after making his debut for the Black Stars of Ghana during the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Mali.
Sulemana came on as a substitute in the 88th minute, replacing Salis Abdul Samed in a crucial game where Ghana managed to turn the tables on Mali to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive. Jordan Ayew scored a late winning goal, leading Ghana to victory after being a goal down against the top-ranked team in Group I.
Despite Mali opening the scoring with Kamory Doumbia before halftime, Ghana fought back with Lyon forward Ernest Nuamah equalizing in the 58th minute before Ayew’s dramatic winner in injury time.
After the game, Sulemana took to social media to express his gratitude for the opportunity to debut for the Black Stars and be part of the team’s comeback victory.
“Debut game. Important victory. Grateful for the opportunity 🇬🇠@GhanaBlackstars #BringBackTheLove Kumasi,” he shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Looking ahead, Sulemana will be eager for another chance to prove himself when Ghana faces Central Africa Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, June 10, 2024.
With Ghana now in second place in Group I after three matches, collecting six points alongside Comoros, the race for World Cup qualification is heating up as Mali and Central Africa Republic are tied on four points each.
