Former Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ chances of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, provided that lingering concerns over team leadership are resolved.

Ghanasoccernet reports that head coach Otto Addo has appointed Jordan Ayew as the new captain, replacing his older brother, Andre Ayew, who has been absent from the squad since March 2024. In Ghana’s last match against Sudan, Mohammed Kudus led the team in Thomas Partey’s absence. However, Partey has declined a permanent leadership role, with Alexander Djiku stepping in as Ayew’s deputy.

Speaking on Luv FM, Appiah, now head coach of Sudan, emphasized the importance of unity within the squad as they prepare for crucial qualifiers this month.

“For me, I’m happy that our position in the group is still good,” he said. “I also hope what I’m hearing is true—that they are sorting out the captaincy issue. If there are other problems, I hope they resolve them as well, but I’m not with the team, so I don’t know everything.”

“If they settle the captaincy situation, then we are in a good place because the team has quality. But without unity, we cannot achieve anything. I hope and pray that Ghana will qualify for the World Cup.”

The Black Stars resume their qualification campaign on March 17, hosting Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium before traveling to Morocco to face Madagascar in another crucial fixture.

Ghana is currently tied at the top of Group I with Comoros, both sitting on nine points after four matches.