Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus strengthened Ghana’s bid for a place at the 2026 Fifa World Cup, while Ivory Coast won to return to the top of their qualifying group.

Four-time continental champions Ghana failed to reach the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations but the Black Stars sit five points clear of second-placed Madagascar in Group I following their 3-0 victory away against the islanders.

Ghana’s cause was also helped as Mali, the top seeds in their group, were held to a goalless draw away against Central African Republic.

The Eagles are third, six points behind Ghana, with four rounds of the 10-game campaign remaining.

Ivory Coast moved to the top of Group F, a point ahead of Gabon, as Sebastien Haller’s first-half header was enough to settle a nervy home encounter with The Gambia.

Only the nine group winners in African qualifying are assured of a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup finals.

The four best second-placed sides will play off for a space at an intercontinental qualifier which will provide the chance for a 10th side to reach the United States, Mexico and Canada.