Ghana stayed in the hunt to qualify for a fourth successive FIFA World Cup after ruthless finishing gave the Black Stars an impressive 5-1 win over Congo in Brazzaville on Tuesday.

Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey grabbed a sensational hat trick with striker Richmond Boakye-Yiadom scoring a brace in the comprehensive victory at the Stade de Municipal Kintele. 

And they did it without some key players,  Asamoah Gyan, Jordan Ayew and Andre Ayew. The trio did not make the trip due to injuries. 

In their absence, Kwesi Appiah was forced to ring changes to the first eleven and Yiadom, who replaced captain, Gyan poked home the opener from close range on 22 minutes after some pinball in the penalty area before Partey increased the tally with a ferocious strike. 

An unmarked Lloyd Ayet headed home to reduce the deficit in the 44th minute but Partey restored the two-goal lead to end the first half.

The Congolese eager to get back in the game tested goalkeeper Richard Ofori,  who produced three top class saves to deny the home side.

In the 69th minute, Partey pounced on a loose ball, prodded it forward and fired to give Ghana an unassailable 4-1 lead before Richmond Boakye-Yiadom grabbed his second with a cool finish five minutes from time.

The result left Ghana with five points from four games, two behind the top spot ahead of Egypt clash with Uganda, and the Cranes must force a draw tonight to give Black Stars a realistic chance of qualifying. 

Congo: Mouko; Dikamona (Kifoueti 34'), Mayembo,Illoy-Ayyet (Oniangue 46') , Badila; Gandzé, Avounou, Bahamboula -  Nguessi (Tchibota 59'), Bifouma, Doré

Ghana: : R. Ofori;  Harrison Afful, Lumor Agbenyenu (Schlupp 68'), Daniel Amartey, Jonathan Mensah -  Afriyie Acquah, Thomas Partey (Gyasi 78'), Ebenezer Ofori (Duncan 56') - Christian Atsu, Richmond Boakye-Yiadom, Thomas Agyepong