The Black Stars opened their 2017 African Cup qualification campaign with the best possible start, easily seeing off Mauritius by 7-1.

Braces from Asamoah Gyan and Jordan Ayew, complemented by a goal for Christian Atsu, and maiden international goals for Jeffrey Schlupp and David Accam completed the romp in Accra.

Ghana was heavy favourites, and never looked in danger at no point during the game. After Atsu headed the team in front, there was no looking back for the Stars against what was a vastly inferior opposing side.

Asamoah Gyan added two quick goals after Jordan had scored Ghana’s second.. Mauritius scored their consolation when Ghana was four ahead, a cross into the box completely misjudged by goalkeeper Fatau Dauda to hand Sophie the easiest of tap-ins.

The Stars continued without any interruption, Jordan adding a fifth before the half time break. It was a vastly different second half, as Ghana noticeably took our foot off the pedal whilst Mauritius had very little to offer. Aside Accam and Schlupp’s goals, the Stars wasted several opportunities as the game wound down.

Ghana thus picks up the easy win, taking an early lead in the standings of Group H. Rwanda picked up an impressive away win in Mozambique in the other group game, joining Ghana top of the group but with an inferior goal difference.