Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has announced a 23-man squad for Ghanas must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar, as the team looks to restore national pride following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
With Ghanas World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, the upcoming matches are seen as a defining moment for Addo, whose tenure has come under intense scrutiny. The squad, led by captain Jordan Ayew, includes three home-based players: Benjamin Asare of Hearts of Oak, Kamaradini Mamudu of Medeama SC, and Razak Simpson of Nations FC.
A major boost for the team is the return of Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed Ghanas last four AFCON qualifiers. With over 50 caps since his debut in 2016, Parteys leadership and experience could be crucial in midfield.
Southamptons Kamal Deen Sulemana also makes a comeback after recovering from injury, while Jerry Afriyie of CD Lugo retains his place following a standout performance against Niger in November. Rising star Christopher Bonsu Baah of Genk has also been included, adding versatility to Ghanas attacking options.
The Black Stars, currently second in Group I with nine points, level with leaders Comoros, must secure maximum points to strengthen their qualification bid.
Ghanas campaign started with a narrow 1-0 win over Madagascar but was derailed by a loss to Comoros. However, consecutive victories over Mali and the Central African Republic last June reignited their hopes.
The team will assemble on Monday, March 17, 2025, for a four-day training camp before facing Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21. They will then travel to Morocco to play Madagascar in another high-stakes encounter on Monday, March 24.
With pressure mounting on Otto Addo and the Black Stars, securing a World Cup spot is not just a targetit is a necessity. After missing out on the next AFCON, qualification for the global stage could be the only way to restore faith in the team and their coach. The next two matches could determine whether Ghanas football revival begins now or if the struggles continue.
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