The Black Stars of Ghana are currently gearing up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with preparations intensifying as the squad gathers ahead of critical matches against Chad and Madagascar.
As of March 18, 2025, thirteen players from the 23-man squad have arrived in Ghana, contributing to a robust training atmosphere. The team opened its camp on March 17, with head coach Otto Addo leading the first training session with nine players, including Mohammed Salisu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Razak Simpson. The remaining players have steadily been joining, and the squad now boasts a complete lineup.
On the second day of training, all 23 invited players were present at the Accra Sports Stadium, showcasing unity and commitment as they prepared for their first game on March 21. The inclusion of experienced players such as Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Inaki Williams strengthens the squad significantly.
The Black Stars will face Chad in the Matchday six fixtures of their qualifying campaign. With the tournament being hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the stakes are high as the team aims to secure a spot in this prestigious event.
As mentioned by Coach Otto Addo, "It’s important to learn from down moments." This sentiment reflects the team's need to draw on past experiences as they strive for success. The coach has stressed the importance of the upcoming matches, saying, "We need Chad, Madagascar games to bring back positivity." This mindset is crucial, particularly as the team prepares for their next few training sessions leading up to the games.
After their first training session with just nine players, including early arrivals like Antoine Semenyo and Lawrence Ati-Zigi, the team saw a flurry of activity as players continued to join the squad. By Tuesday, March 18, the team had swelled to a full roster of 23 players, all actively engaged in training.
Among the more notable recent arrivals are Lawrence Agyekum from Cercle Brugge and Alexander Djiku, both of whom are integral to the team's game strategy. This influx of players not only enhances the competitive spirit but also boosts morale within the squad.
The Black Stars intend to hold several additional training sessions before their match against Chad, with the final preparations scheduled for Thursday, March 20, ahead of their Friday night kickoff at 19:00 GMT. The coaching staff has organized the training sessions meticulously to ensure players are match-ready.
Currently, their schedule indicates a matchup not only against Chad but also against Madagascar shortly after, as they are set to fly out to Morocco for the latter game on March 24. Each match represents a vital opportunity for points in their qualification group.
With the tournament hosting in 2026 promising unprecedented excitement in a tri-nation format, the pressure is on for the Black Stars. Each training session is vital as they build cohesion and strategy. Their performance in the upcoming games will be crucial for qualifying, aiming to reestablish Ghana's status in the international football arena.
The fans are eager to see how the Black Stars will perform, especially after several past successes, and the hope is that this current training gathering will yield favorable results when the matches kick off. The team's preparation is not just about physical fitness; it’s also about fostering a collective mindset geared toward achieving excellence.
With a talented lineup and strategic training, the Black Stars are ready to face the challenge ahead, looking for a win to spark confidence and achievement as they pursue their World Cup dreams.
