Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have cemented their reputation as one of the most dangerous teams from set-pieces in recent seasons, with meticulous planning and the influence of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover playing a key role in their success. Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have become one of the Premier League’s most efficient sides in dead-ball situations, regularly ranking among the league’s top scorers from corners and free kicks.
With aerial threats like Gabriel Magalhães, William Saliba, Mikel Merino and Declan Rice, Arsenal have perfected the art of set-piece execution. Their routines feature a mix of short corners, quick plays, and near-post flick-ons, with Bukayo Saka and Rice providing pinpoint deliveries.
Now, that set-piece prowess appears to be rubbing off on Arsenal players at the international level, most notably, Thomas Partey, who played a starring role for Ghana in their latest World Cup qualifier.
READ MORE: Another Arsenal star scores on full national team debut
Ghana Black Stars cruised to a commanding 3-0 victory over Madagascar in the second leg of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Morocco, just days after a 5-0 thrashing of Chad. Partey was at the heart of the win, scoring two headed goals from corner kicks expertly delivered by captain Jordan Ayew. Mohammed Kudus sealed the result with a third goal late in the second half, while Ayew finished with a hat-trick of assists in an inspirational performance.
Thomas Partey scored two headers for Ghana Black Stars against Madagascar (Image credit: GFA Communications)CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
With the win, Ghana have extended their lead at the top of Group I to five points, sitting on 15 points. Madagascar remain second with 10 points, while Mali are third with nine points following a goalless draw against the Central African Republic. Comoros are also level with Mali on nine points, while CAR sit in fifth place with five points. Chad remain at the bottom of the group without a single point.
The victory marked a historic moment for Ghana, as it was the first time they had won back-to-back qualifiers while scoring eight goals without conceding. Head coach Otto Addo expressed his delight with the team’s performance, having previously labelled the game a “mini final.”
With four matches remaining in the group, Black Stars of Ghana will look to maintain their momentum as they push for a place at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
NEXT ARTICLE: Luis de la Fuente reveals why Mikel Merino has impressed him
