Ghana’s Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, has made it clear that he is not dwelling on past statistics as his team prepares to face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

After a disappointing 2024 campaign—winning just two of ten matches and failing to qualify for AFCON for the first time in two decades—Ghana is looking for redemption. The Black Stars finished bottom of their AFCON qualifying group with just three points, intensifying the need for a turnaround.

Despite the setbacks, Addo remains focused on the present and believes the upcoming fixtures provide an opportunity to reignite the team’s confidence.

“For me, it’s not about qualifiers, World Cup, or AFCON qualifiers. Every game is important,” Addo told 3Sports. “Statistics count, but they don’t define us. What matters is how we respond and improve. I’m really looking forward to these matches to bring back positivity and confidence to the players.”

The Black Stars, currently second in Group I with nine points—level with leaders Comoros—will host Chad on March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium before traveling to Morocco to face Madagascar three days later. With World Cup qualification on the line, these matches could be pivotal in Ghana’s journey to 2026.