by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 28, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s Black Stars delivered a powerful statement in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, claiming emphatic victories over Chad and Madagascar during the March international window. Head coach Otto Addo has credited the team’s collective effort and growing cohesion for their commanding performances.
In a dazzling display of attacking prowess, Ghana dismantled Chad 5-0 before sealing a 3-0 triumph against Madagascar. These back-to-back wins propelled the Black Stars to the summit of Group I, establishing a three-point cushion over second-placed Comoros and reinforcing their ambitions for a place at the global showpiece.
Speaking to Sportsblog247.com, Addo expressed pride in how the team has responded to recent tactical adjustments and praised the leadership of experienced forward Jordan Ayew.
“Jordan has done a really good job. We have also reshaped the team, and the team is working together really well. We have shown it in our last matches,” Addo remarked. “I think he is the right person to work hard with all his experience.”
The Black Stars will now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures in September, where they will face Chad again and a challenging encounter with Mali. With momentum on their side, Addo’s men aim to maintain their winning form and edge closer to securing their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 28, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, the newly-appointed Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), has raised serious concerns about the alarming state of the Accra Sports Stadium.
In a candid interview with Citi Sports, the veteran broadcaster revealed his shock after a personal inspection of the stadium ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad. Describing the condition as nothing short of a “crime scene,” Mr. Ampofo Ankrah did not mince words about the stark reality he encountered.
“What we were told previously is not what we met,” he stated with visible frustration. “If I’m being honest, I think I need to use the word ‘crime scene’ because what was painted to us does not reflect the reality.”
His inspection exposed significant structural issues and widespread deterioration, contradicting the reports he had received prior to assuming office. Mr. Ampofo Ankrah expressed deep disappointment, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to restore the iconic stadium.
The dilapidated state of the stadium, a venue that has hosted some of Ghana’s most historic sporting moments, raises serious concerns about safety and the nation’s readiness to host major international fixtures.
As the Black Stars prepare to face Chad in a crucial World Cup qualifier, the NSA boss’s revelations cast a shadow over the preparations, amplifying calls for immediate action to salvage the facility.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 28, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Benjamin Asare’s journey from the Ghana Premier League to the national spotlight is a testament to hard work and a winning mindset.
The 32-year-old goalkeeper, formerly of Great Olympics, has been in sensational form during the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season, keeping an impressive 12 clean sheets. His performances earned him a maiden call-up to the Black Stars for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.
For Asare, the recipe for success is simple: “As a player, the secret is hard work; training, preparation, and mindset. You have to be aggressive about it because, without these things, you cannot make it as a footballer,” he revealed.
Stepping onto the international stage, Asare did not disappoint. He kept clean sheets in both matches, as Ghana secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Chad and a 3-0 win against Madagascar. His assured performances between the posts solidified his reputation as a rising force in Ghanaian football.
Beyond his skill, Asare credits the welcoming atmosphere in the Black Stars camp for boosting his confidence. “As soon as I entered camp, everyone was happy to welcome me, which gave me more motivation to work hard,” he said, acknowledging the role senior players played in his seamless integration.
He offered special praise to Jordan Ayew for his encouragement. “Special thanks to Jordan Ayew- he motivated me all the time and told me that, despite being a local player, I can do this.”
With his performances now drawing national acclaim, Benjamin Asare is proving that talent from the domestic league can rise to the highest levels and thrive. As the Black Stars prepare for a four-nation tournament in June and pivotal qualifiers against Chad and Mali, Asare will aim to hold onto his place between the posts and continue his remarkable journey.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 28, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, believes there is still room for improvement despite Ghana’s impressive victories in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
After a challenging 2024, the four-time African champions bounced back strongly in 2025 with a commanding 5-0 win over Chad and a 3-0 triumph against Madagascar during the March international break. These back-to-back victories ended Ghana’s six-game winless streak and propelled them to the top of Group I with 15 points, three points ahead of second-placed Comoros.
Speaking to Sportsblog247.com, Addo praised his team’s defensive solidity and attacking prowess but emphasized the need for better team cohesion.
“We have certain areas where we can always improve. We had a solid defence, and we also scored a lot of goals [against Chad and Madagascar],” he noted.
“But in between, the connection has to be much stronger, because especially the second game against Mali will be very tough. If we continue like that, we will be successful,” Addo added.
With four matches remaining in the qualifiers, the Black Stars will resume their campaign in September, facing Chad and Mali in crucial Matchday 7 and 8 encounters as they aim to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 28, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Parliament has approved a budget allocation of GH¢65,899,456.00 to support sports development across the country.
The approval was granted on Thursday, March 27, 2025, following a motion presented by the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza.
The motion was seconded by several Members of Parliament, including Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth, MP for Okere Constituency, who emphasized the need for proper maintenance of sports facilities.
“Maintenance has been an issue, and if we want to continue developing our sports and engaging the youth, the maintenance aspect should be very important to the ministry. This will ensure that these facilities last and provide opportunities for young people to develop their talent,” he stated.
Agbodza highlighted the ministry’s plans for the allocated funds, noting that the budget would be used to enhance sports activities nationwide.
“The amount is intended to help the ministry cover the activities of sports in the country, including the development of a new sports policy, the rehabilitation of some stadia, and the establishment of the national sports fund,” he explained.
The approval marks a significant step in boosting the country’s sports sector, ensuring better infrastructure and opportunities for young athletes.
