by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 22, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
In a night to remember, Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare marked his Ghana debut with a calm and composed performance, helping the Black Stars cruise to a dominant 5-0 victory over Chad in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday.
Asare, who has been a standout performer in the Ghana Premier League this season, seized his opportunity on the international stage. Although the game saw Ghana controlling much of the play, Asare demonstrated his readiness with a confident display whenever called into action. From handling Chad’s rare attacking threats to commanding his box with authority, the 25-year-old showcased the qualities that earned him a national team call-up.
His inclusion in the Black Stars squad was a well-deserved reward for his exceptional club form, where he has consistently impressed as the best goalkeeper in the domestic league. With this assured debut, Asare has strengthened his case for future call-ups and has underlined the growing faith in locally-based players within the national team setup.
Ghanaian football fans took to social media to express their excitement and pride, praising Asare for his composure and hinting at a bright future for the goalkeeper in the Black Stars’ ranks.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 22, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
With the race for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup heating up, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has made it clear that his team will give their all to secure a crucial win against Madagascar on Monday, March 24.
Following a dominant 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium, Ghana sits atop Group I in the African qualifiers. However, their position remains under threat with Madagascar just two points behind. A win on Monday would solidify Ghana’s lead and strengthen their path to the World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Coach Otto Addo emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and staying at the summit of the group.
“It’s always easier when you’re on top. We want to stay there. We will try to do everything to beat Madagascar on Monday to keep the top spot,” he affirmed.
For Ghana, the stakes are high. Victory in Madagascar will not only protect their lead but also inch them closer to securing a ticket to the global showpiece. Meanwhile, Madagascar will be equally motivated to snatch the three points and reclaim the top spot in the group.
As the Black Stars prepare for the pivotal encounter, all eyes will be on Otto Addo’s men to deliver another commanding performance and keep their World Cup dream alive.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 22, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s 5-0 demolition of Chad in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers not only lifted the Black Stars to the top of Group I but also brought relief to President John Dramani Mahama. The former president, known for his passion for football, revealed that the commanding victory eased his nerves and even restored his appetite.
Ahead of the match, Mahama humorously admitted he was advised to eat beforehand to avoid the emotional strain of watching the Black Stars. However, Otto Addo’s side delivered a performance that lifted his spirits.
“I had a good appetite for dinner after the Black Stars’ 5-0 victory. Congrats, guys!” Mahama shared, celebrating the team’s impressive display.
While expressing his joy, Mahama also issued a word of caution. He urged the team to stay focused and avoid complacency, emphasizing that the win should mark the beginning of rebuilding trust and passion between the Black Stars and their supporters.
“Let this victory not make us complacent. This should be the beginning of bringing back the LOVE,” he added.
With Ghana sitting at the summit of Group I, the focus now shifts to their upcoming fixture against Madagascar on Monday in Morocco. Mahama, along with millions of Ghanaians, will be hoping for another dominant performance to bring the Black Stars closer to securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 22, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s Black Stars delivered a commanding performance to defeat Chad 5-0, climbing to the top of Group I in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The emphatic victory at the Accra Sports Stadium marked a return to form for Otto Addo’s side, with goals from Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, and Ernest Nuamah sealing the win.
Here’s a closer look at five major talking points from Ghana’s impressive triumph:
1. Benjamin Asare Shines on His Debut
Making his first appearance for the Black Stars, Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare delivered a composed and reliable performance. Although not heavily tested, the 32-year-old responded confidently on the few occasions Chad threatened. His solid display may give Otto Addo a selection headache, as Asare now poses a strong challenge to Lawrence Ati Zigi and Jojo Wollacot for the starting spot against Madagascar.
2. Thomas Partey Celebrates 50th Cap in Style
Thomas Partey marked his 50th appearance for Ghana with a vintage display in midfield. The Arsenal star dictated the tempo, providing both defensive cover and creative flair. His ability to control the game allowed attacking players like Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew to flourish, highlighting his continued importance to the national team.
3. Ernest Nuamah’s Rise Continues
While much attention often falls on his Right to Dream Academy graduate Mohammed Kudus, Olympique Lyonnais forward Ernest Nuamah continues to make his mark. With a goal and an assist against Chad, Nuamah reaffirmed his growing influence on the team. His attacking contributions have been vital throughout the qualifiers, including standout performances against Mali and the Central African Republic.
4. Otto Addo Embraces an Attacking Approach
In a refreshing tactical shift, Otto Addo adopted a bold attacking strategy, starting five offensive-minded players. Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus, and Ernest Nuamah spearheaded a relentless attack that overwhelmed Chad’s defense. This proactive approach contrasts with the team’s previous possession-heavy but ineffective displays.
5. A Newfound Confidence in the Black Stars
After recent struggles in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Ghana played with renewed confidence and precision. Their fluid and aggressive performance against Chad was a far cry from the nervy displays against Niger and Sudan. This newfound belief will be crucial as they prepare for their next challenge against Madagascar.
With this statement win, the Black Stars have sent a message to their rivals, reaffirming their ambition to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 22, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Antoine Semenyo has revealed his determination to score during this international break after enduring a two-year goal drought for the Black Stars.
The forward, who last found the net in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola, broke his dry spell in style by scoring the opener in Ghana’s commanding 5-0 win over Chad on Friday in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium.
“I feel like every player has a period when they don’t score. Every game is an opportunity to try and get a goal; if I don’t, I focus on the next game,” Semenyo said after the match. “I felt like, during this international break, I needed to get a goal. I’m not going to say there is any pressure.”
Semenyo’s second-minute strike set the tone for a dominant Black Stars display. Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, and Ernest Nuamah added to the tally as Ghana delivered an emphatic victory.
The win propelled Ghana to the top of Group I with 12 points, two points ahead of Madagascar. With a crucial clash against the island nation looming on Monday in Morocco, Otto Addo’s side will be eager to maintain their momentum and strengthen their position in the World Cup qualification race.
