Ghanaian football legend Mohammed Polo has strongly urged the Black Stars to take decisive action in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite being four-time African champions, the team has had a shaky start to their qualification campaign, currently sitting in fourth place in Group I with only three points, following a win against Madagascar and a loss to Comoros.

The upcoming fixtures against Mali and the Central African Republic offer the Black Stars an opportunity to improve their standing. They are set to play Mali on June 6 at the Stade du 26 Mars, followed by a home game against the Central African Republic on June 10 at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

Polo highlighted the importance of these matches, stressing that the players must grasp the gravity of the situation. He reminded them of their responsibility to represent the country and warned that failure to meet expectations would have consequences.

“These players have been assigned to the Black Stars. Even though I fervently hope they succeed and will fully support them, they will hear from us if they don’t,” Polo told Akoma FM.

The team arrived in Bamako on Wednesday evening to finalize their preparations for the game against Mali. With revised qualification rules, Ghana has a chance to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, if they top their group.

Polo emphasized the critical nature of qualification, especially after the disappointments of missing the previous World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. “With five [9] slots available, it’s an opportunity we must seize. Qualification is paramount because Ghanaian fans demand excellence, and this can only be achieved through dedication,” he said.

The pressure is on for the Black Stars to deliver results and keep their World Cup dreams alive.

4o