by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Mohammed Kudus was among the first to report to the Black Stars’ camp ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, but he did not take part in the opening training session.
Despite arriving on Sunday, Kudus was excused from Monday’s practice by head coach Otto Addo, according to Ghana Football Association Communications Director Henry Asante Twum.
While nine other players engaged in shooting, passing, and stretching drills, Kudus’ absence raised eyebrows. However, Asante Twum clarified on Sporty FM: “Mohammed Kudus arrived on Sunday. He was in camp, but the coach [Otto Addo] excused him from the first day’s training.”
With the full squad now gathered, Ghana will now turn its attention to tactical preparations for upcoming matches against Chad on March 21 and Madagascar on March 24. Kudus, who has struggled for form at West Ham United this season with just three goals, will be eager to rediscover his spark after a disappointing last outing for the Black Stars, where he missed a crucial penalty against Niger in the AFCON qualifiers.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian forward Jordan Ayew is heading into the next round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as one of Africa’s top goal scorers.
The Black Stars striker has been included in Otto Addo’s 23-man squad for the upcoming Group I clashes against Chad and Madagascar. These crucial matches could significantly boost Ghana’s chances of securing a spot in the next World Cup.
Ayew has been in stellar form, netting four goals in the first four group matches, including a remarkable hat-trick against the Central African Republic. His tally places him as the third-highest scorer in the African qualifiers, just one goal behind Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, who lead with five goals.
With two key fixtures ahead, the Crystal Palace forward has the opportunity to climb to the top of the scoring charts if he finds the net against Chad and Madagascar.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The National Sports Authority (NSA) is prioritizing preparations at the Accra Sports Stadium ahead of Ghana’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad.
With just days remaining before the match on March 21, NSA Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has reaffirmed that ensuring the best conditions for the Black Stars takes precedence. He, alongside Sports Minister Kofi Adams, visited the stadium on Monday to assess progress and boost morale.
“The situation is always evolving, but right now, the priority is the Black Stars’ World Cup qualifier against Chad. The best venue, the best preparation—it’s all happening here at Accra Sports Stadium,” Ankrah stated.
He also emphasized long-term planning for future matches, including the September home fixture, and assured that maintenance work continues round the clock.
Ghana will face Chad on March 21 before traveling to play Madagascar three days later.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
As Ghana’s Black Stars gear up for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Chad, head coach Otto Addo has expressed satisfaction with the playing surface at the Accra Sports Stadium.
National Sports Authority (NSA) Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah shared the positive update after inspecting the venue alongside Sports Minister Kofi Adams on Monday. The NSA has been working tirelessly to ensure the stadium meets the required standards before the big game.
“We are on it. Yes, a lot of emergency renovation work is needed, and that is what we are doing. But, God willing, by game day, everything will be fine,” Ankrah assured.
With just two more treatment sessions left on the pitch, officials are confident it will be in top condition for Friday’s clash. Otto Addo, pleased with the improvements, has aligned his training strategy with the playing surface, ensuring the team is well-prepared for Chad.
Following the Chad encounter, Ghana will shift focus to their next qualifier against Madagascar on March 24th.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Königsdörffer’s Heroics Propel Hamburg, Earns Team of the Week Recognition
Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer continues to make waves in Bundesliga 2, and his latest display against Magdeburg has only cemented his reputation as a key player for Hamburger SV.
On a thrilling matchday, the Ghanaian forward wasted no time in setting the tone, netting a superb strike in the 9th minute to hand HSV an early lead. The visitors soon found themselves two goals up after Marcus Mathisen inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
After the break, Königsdörffer once again stole the show, calmly slotting home his second goal in the 53rd minute—his 11th of the season in 25 appearances. His brilliance not only guided Hamburg to a commanding victory but also earned him a well-deserved spot in Sofascore’s Bundesliga 2 Team of the Week.
Despite his red-hot form, Königsdörffer was overlooked for Ghana’s squad for their upcoming clashes against Chad and Madagascar. Nevertheless, the 23-year-old remains a vital cog in HSV’s promotion chase, keeping their hopes of a return to the Bundesliga alive.
