Ghana’s Black Stars Head Coach, Otto Addo, will announce his squad today, Friday, March 14, 2025, for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Madagascar.
This announcement comes as the four-time African champions prepare to regroup for Matchday 5 and 6 of the qualifiers, scheduled for later this month.
The Black Stars are set to face Chad on Friday, March 21, at the Accra Sports Stadium, before traveling to Morocco to take on Madagascar at the Grand Stade d’Al Hoceima on Monday, March 24.
These matches are pivotal for Ghana, who currently sit joint-top of Group I alongside Comoros with nine points, following back-to-back wins against Mali and the Central African Republic in their previous qualifiers.
A strong performance in these upcoming fixtures could solidify their position and edge them closer to a fifth World Cup appearance, with the tournament slated for the USA, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
Addo’s squad selection is under intense scrutiny, especially after Ghana’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—their first miss in two decades.
The 49-year-old tactician is under pressure to restore confidence in the team and turn the tide after a torrid AFCON qualifying campaign that saw no wins, three draws, and three losses.
Sources suggest that Addo is expected to blend experience with emerging talent, with key players like Thomas Partey, Antoine Semenyo, and Alexander Djiku reportedly in line for a return after missing the final AFCON qualifier against Niger due to injuries.
However, the squad announcement may also bring some setbacks. Injuries are likely to rule out notable names such as Alidu Seidu, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Abdul Mumin, and Daniel Kofi Kyereh, posing a challenge for Addo as he finalizes his lineup.
Ahead of the announcement, Addo has been proactive in rallying support. On Wednesday, he visited the Ga Mantse, Tackie Tsuru II, to seek blessings and guidance, underscoring the importance of unity and backing from all corners of the nation.
“We have difficult matches ahead, and the country needs urgent victories to qualify for the World Cup,” Addo remarked during the visit. “I believe we need to support ourselves—especially from the Ga chiefs and the entire people—so that everybody can be happy.”
