Mali coach Tom Saintfiet has thrown his weight behind Ghana’s potential to achieve World Cup success, pointing to the Black Stars’ heartbreaking 2010 quarter-final exit as proof of their capacity to compete with the world’s best.
The Belgian tactician, who previously pursued the Ghana coaching role, expressed unwavering belief in the team’s ability to reach the semi-finals or beyond in future tournaments.
Reflecting on one of African football’s most painful moments, Saintfiet stated, “Ghana was very close to that in 2010. If it wasn’t for that Suarez handball, Ghana would have already made it to the semifinal.” His comments revive memories of Luis Suarez’s deliberate handball on the goal line that ultimately denied Ghana a historic place in the World Cup semi-finals.
Saintfiet’s endorsement comes despite Ghana’s recent struggles, including their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He argued that temporary setbacks don’t diminish a nation’s footballing status, drawing parallels with Italy’s World Cup qualification failures and Nigeria’s AFCON triumphs followed by absence from subsequent tournaments.
The coach emphasised Ghana’s “immense” player quality and infrastructure, suggesting the foundation for World Cup success remains intact. His support extends beyond mere encouragement, as he revealed having held substantial talks about leading the Black Stars before Otto Addo’s appointment.
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