Ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Madagascar, former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has delivered a passionate message to the Black Stars, urging them to play with determination and protect their goal.

The Black Stars, who are chasing a fifth World Cup appearance, will face the Barea tonight at 19:00 GMT in their Matchday six encounter. With Ghana sitting atop Group I with 12 points—two points clear of Madagascar—the stakes are high.

Buoyed by a commanding 5-0 victory over Chad last week, Gyan, Africa’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with six goals, has challenged the team to maintain their winning momentum while ensuring defensive solidity.

“Let’s go one hundred per cent, guys. I want Ghanaians to see you fighting and giving everything on the pitch—the result will follow,” Gyan encouraged. “We have the talent and great players, but that extra push and commitment will get us there.”

Expressing confidence in the squad, Gyan highlighted the belief shared by the technical team. “Me and my colleagues, the technical team, trust in you—otherwise, we wouldn’t be here. Our job is to give you that little push to get over the line,” he added.

His message was clear: play to win but also prioritize keeping a clean sheet. “Let’s go for the kill. If we don’t concede, we get a point; if we win, we take three points and ease the pressure,” Gyan stressed during a motivational interaction with the players in camp.

With Madagascar trailing closely behind in the group, tonight’s clash could play a pivotal role in Ghana’s journey to the 2026 World Cup.