Both clubs’ supporters view the other as their main adversary, and many people consider the derby to be one of the most storied and competitive derbies in the world.
Thomas Partey after helping Arsenal beat bitter rivals Spurs in the North London Derby on Saturday afternoon has declared that North London is red.
Fans of both clubs consider the other to be their main rivals, and the derby is considered by many to be one of the most famous and fiercest derbies in the world.
The midfielder for the Black Stars scored from outside the box with a stunning strike into the top right corner.
This was his first league goal for Arsenal FC in the 2022–23 English Premier League season.
After the game the 29-year-old took to Facebook to post pictures from the game with the caption: “North London is red”
The 29-year-old has played five games in the league this season.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has received a stern warning from Ghanaian broadcaster Abeiku Santana to be careful with how he runs the national team.
Football, in the opinion of Abeiku Santana, is the lifeblood of the country, and as a result, many Ghanaians have put their trust in coach Otto Addo. For this reason, he cannot afford to manage the Black Stars team carelessly.
Abeiku Santana commented on the Black Stars’ recent 1-0 victory over Nicaragua and said that Otto Addo should hang his head in shame for failing to defeat the Americans convincingly.
“Otto Addo should lower his rattling. We have entrusted millions of hearts in your hands and football is something you don’t joke with.
“As Ghanaians, we don’t joke with our music, funeral, football and songs, so I don’t expect you to be happy scoring 1-0 against Nicaragua. Otto be serious,” Abeiku Santana stated.
The Black Stars would play at the 2022 FIFA World Cup where they would come up against South Korea, Uruguay and Portugal.
Former Great Olympics and Ebusua Dwarfs coach, JE Sarpong has implored Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, to prioritize inviting players based on fitness and form and not big names.
His comments come following Ghana’s September friendly games against Brazil and Nicaragua.
The Black Stars suffered a 3-0 defeat to the five-time world champions at the Le Harve in France before beating 139th-ranked, Nicaragua 1-0.
According to the veteran trainer, the technical team of the Black Stars focus must be on using Ghana’s international friendlies to do another assessment of the players and how well they fit into the team to ensure a strong Black Stars side capable of going into the World Cup tournament with their best foot forward.
“The truth is that Ghana has names who are playing well outside but currently don’t have a team which is near competitive. These friendly games will ultimately turn out positively for a team in the World Cup,” he told Graphic Sports.
“Selection must be done on merit and those who have the heart to perform. On a bigger stage like the World Cup, it is only players who have big hearts who must be encouraged to play,” he said.
The Black Stars will take on Switzerland in November in their final preparatory games before heading to Qatar for the Mundial which kick off from November 20 to December 18.
During the interval, Ghana, who will compete in the world championship after not qualifying for Russia 2018, played two international friendly against Brazil and Nicaragua.
After falling to Brazil 3-0, Ghana bounced back to defeat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain thanks to a goal from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
The former Ghana Premier League goal king award winner has admitted he lacks faith in the attackers after scoring just one goal in the two exhibition games.
“Many of players in the current Black Stars have good techniques individually, unfortunately, there is no team work. We still don’t have good potent goal scorers. I seriously don’t have confidence in the current strikers we have. But I hope as time goes on our strikers build confidence when they get in front of goal,” he told Koforidua-based Bryt FM.
According to him, the availability of Inaki Williams will not solve the goal scoring woes of the national team because of his arrival.
“Inaki Williams came late because he will only play 3 matches with the team before heading to the world cup which he has already played two. At his club because he has played with the team for long there is the cohesion he has with his teammates”
Ghana has been paired in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea at the World Cup.
Black Stars drew 1-1 with Nigeria in the second leg of the final play-offs at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to secure qualification on the away goals rule, securing their spot in the FIFA World Cup for the fourth time after competing in 2006, 2010, and 2014 in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil.
Ghana’s opening match in Group H will be against Portugal.
The Stars will next play South Korea in the remaining group games before facing Uruguay in a rematch of the 2010 World Cup quarterfinal.
“Personally, I knew what was supposed to be done and took advice from people, including some senior former players, on things to do to qualify,” Andre Ayew told Graphic Online.
“And honestly, since we qualified for the World Cup a lot of things have changed, the confidence and belief are back; now we just have to get stability and a lot of games together, and I think we can make a good impression in this World Cup.”
Spanish forward Nico Williams, who was born in Ghana, has said that playing for Spain has always been his top desire.
He expressed gratitude to Luis Enrique for bestowing such an honor upon him and stated that he had always wanted to play for the Spanish national team.
“I’ve been quite vocal about wanting to be here, and I’m grateful that Luis Enrique has given me the chance.
“I intend to benefit from it.
As everyone is aware, I want to play for the Spanish squad and improve, proving that I am deserving of my position.
Nico Williams, the younger brother of Black Stars striker Inaki Williams, was one of three debutantes named in Enrique’s squad for the international break.
He made his debut in Spain’s defeat against Switzerland before assisting the winning goal in his second game against Portugal to qualify Spain for the UEFA Nations League semi-finals.
After the international break in September, the Black Stars players came under scrutiny and received criticism.
Nearly every player on the team was criticized after Ghana’s allegedly lackluster performances against Brazil and 139th-ranked Nicaragua.
However, certain players have faced more backlash and criticism than others, and people will have differing views on whether or not they should be included in the final World Cup roster.
Other Ghanaians, however, believe the Crystal Palace forward brings more to the team than just goals, and thus his presence is required.
Felix Afena Gyan
The critics have claimed that Felix Afena-Gyan is too young and inexperienced to lead the Black Stars’ attacking line. He should thus be sacrificed.
While some believe he can lead the line, the Black Stars are short on playmakers who can feed him the ball.
Issahaku Fatawu
Many Ghanaians believe that, despite having a high ceiling, Issahaku Fatawu should be dropped from the squad. Some argue that his play lacks maturity and that he should be allowed to develop at Sporting Lisbon before being drafted back into the national team.
Others believe he has a lot to offer the team but appears to be overburdened by his starting spot.
Dede Ayew
Many believe the Black Stars captain has passed his prime and contributes little to the team when he plays. As a result, he should be dropped from the starting lineup or the team entirely.
Another school of thought holds that Ayew’s experience is essential in the team, if for no other reason. In addition, given his goal-scoring record against the available attackers, playing offensive right behind the striker will be ideal because he is potent.
Dede has scored 73 goals in 107 appearances for the Black Stars.
Baba Rahman
Baba Rahman has not been a better version of himself in recent Black Stars games, and some Ghanaians believe he should not be with the team for the World Cup.
Meanwhile, some believe that betting on Gideon Mensah, Baba’s backup, is a huge risk. At least, Baba has seen it all and could weather the storm when the going gets tough.
Asamoah Gyan, a former captain of Ghana, has counseled the Black Stars technical staff to develop a clear structure for the team before to the start of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in November 2022.
Ghana, who experimented with several tactics during the international break, defeated Nicaragua 1-0 while losing to Brazil 3-0.
Gyan told Joy News that the team should identify with a single, effective system that could get the most out of the players on hand.
Ghana must choose one reliable system and master it.
We have talented players, but we still need to develop a winning strategy.
We can make adjustments as needed, but we must use the one system at which we excel.
The Black Stars have a tall order at the World Cup as they have been pitted against Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay in Group H of the World Cup.
The Black Stars will begin their World Cup campaign against Portugal on November 24, followed by South Korea on November 28, and conclude against Uruguay on December 2 at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakra.
Former Ghana international Dan Owusu has expressed worry about the form of the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
Prior to the tournament in the Asian country, the West African powerhouse has engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.
Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil and recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
.
In an interview with Koforidua-based Bryt FM, the former Ghana forward expressed displeasure about the performance of the team ahead of the mundial.
“Our performance is very worrisome at the moment. Our game play is very abysmal and it’s time we improve because the world up is just few months away”
“Nicaragua isn’t a strong country that we should suffer to beat. Our game against Nicaragua was a very low-profile match. That match wasn’t needed for a country preparing for World Cup”
“Many of players in the current Black Stars have good techniques individually, unfortunately, there is no team work. We still don’t have good potent goal scorers. I seriously don’t have confidence in the current strikers we have. But I hope as time goes on our strikers build confidence when they get in front of goal,” he said.
Ghana captain Andre Dede Ayew is confident the Black Stars will make an impact at this year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Black Stars secured a 4th FIFA World Cup tournament having participated in 2006, 2010, and 2014 in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil after drawing 1-1 against Nigeria in the return leg of the final play-offs at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to seal qualification on the away goals rule.
Ghana will take on Portugal in their first game in Group H. The Stars will then take on Uruguay in a repeat of the 2010 World Cup quarter-final and South Korea in the other group games.
“Personally, I knew what was supposed to be done and took advice from people, including some senior former players, on things to do to qualify,” Andre Ayew told Graphic Online.
“And honestly, since we qualified for the World Cup a lot of things have changed, the confidence and belief are back; now we just have to get stability and a lot of games together, and I think we can make a good impression in this World Cup.”
The 2022 FIFA World Cup takes place between November 21 and December 18
Only three sides from the continent have ever progressed to the quarter-finals; Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010.
Former Germany youth international Stephan Ambrosius has to wait for his Ghana debut after missing Brazil and Nicaragua’s encounter during international break.
The 23-year-old who switched allegiance to play for Ghana was named in Otto Addo’s 29-man squad for September friendlies.
Despite making the squad, the enterprising Karlsruher SC defender was not given a chance to make his debut.
He will have to wait until November to play his first game for the Black Stars.
Ambrosius has featured 5 times for Karlsruher SC in the German Bundesliga 2.
Otto Addo, the coach of Ghana, is unconcerned with the Black Stars’ performance before the World Cup in Qatar.
The Black Stars are participating in the world championship after being absent in Russia in 2018.
Otto Addo has led the national team to the 2022 World Cup, although in his eight games since taking over, he has only won two of them. His first two games were against Nigeria.
Because both contests were tied, Ghana was guaranteed a spot in the tournament in Qatar based on away goals.
Since then, Ghana have only beaten Madagascar once, a 3-0 victory in Cape Coast in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, and Tuesday’s 1-0 victory over Nicaragua.
The run has included defeats to Japan (4-1) and Brazil (3-0), as well as draws with the Central African Republic (1-1) and Chile (0-0).
“We are using these matches to try a lot of things, not only on the players but also for my side on systems, so we have to find that together. This is very important for us as a team.
“We have new players in each position we need to integrate and a whole a lot of things and we also want to use these games for everyone to show themselves at the training and also in the games and I am not worried.
“We have to take the right conclusions out of every match and prepare ourselves for the World Cup.”
Laryea Kingston, a former Ghanaian great, claims he won’t be surprised if Inaki Williams is the primary Black Stars attacker in the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
He claims that the player has proven his abilities and will likely be chosen over the competition given his expertise.
Laryea Kingston said of Inaki Williams, “I see him as someone that is going to lead our striking position in the tournament because of the experience and what I have seen about him as a technical guy,” in an interview with Radio Gold Talk Sport.
The retired footballer who is now a coach added that he was impressed with the performance of Inaki Williams in the two friendly matches played in the past week against Brazil and Nicaragua.
“Inaki Williams did not get enough balls but he did the right thing against Nicaragua,” Laryea Kingston said.
Inaki Williams will have another chance to show what he can do in November when Ghana takes on Switzerland in a final pre-world cup friendly match.
Ghana’s left-back Baba Rahman is confident the Black Stars can improve on their performance before the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar commences.
The Black Stars were a pale shadow of themselves as they lost be 3-0 to Brazil and earned a 1-0 win over Nicaragua.
Baba Rahman who played in the game against Brazil is positive that the Black Stars can work harder to get themselves in shape before the World Cup starts.
“Good exercise with the national team. More work to do but we will get there. Thanks for all the support and love. God bless our homeland and make us great and strong,” he wrote on Twitter.
Baba Rahman has made 46 appearances for Ghana but he is likely to miss Ghana’s World Cup as a result of his recent deep in performance.
JNA We have more work to do, but we will get there – Baba Rahman
Ghana’s left-back Baba Rahman is confident the Black Stars can improve on their performance before the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar commences.
The Black Stars were a pale shadow of themselves as they lost 3-0 to Brazil and earned a 1-0 win over Nicaragua.
Baba Rahman, who played in the game against Brazil, is positive that the Black Stars can work harder to get themselves in shape before the World Cup starts.
“Good exercise with the national team. More work to do but we will get there. Thanks for all the support and love. God bless our homeland and make us great and strong,” he wrote on Twitter.
Baba Rahman has made 46 appearances for Ghana, but he is likely to miss Ghana’s World Cup due to his recent dip in performance.
Otto Addo, the head coach of the Black Stars, has guaranteed that 70% of the players invited for the friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua will qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
As part of their preparations for the tournament in November, Ghana scheduled two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua.
The Black Stars have been placed in Group H with South Korea, Uruguay, and Portugal, and the friendlies will help the team get ready for the World Cup.
Friday’s inaugural friendly match in Le Havre, France saw Ghana fall to Brazil 3-0.
Richarlison and Marquinoius both scored twice to ensure that the Selecao maintained its advantage over the Black Stars.
Brazil have recorded five straight wins against Ghana at the senior level.
Coach Otto Addo admitted to mistakes in his starting eleven after the defeat and hopes to select a good team based on performance in the game against Nicaragua today.
The Dortmund trainer confirmed that 70 percent of the 29 players invited during this international break will make Ghana’s squad for the World Cup.
“70 percent of the players currently on international duty with Ghana’s squad who meet Nicaragua in Lorca, Spain on Tuesday will be in Qatar, Addo told Bild.
He added, “The remaining 30 percent will be “tight decisions”.
“We’re watching the players closely for the next few games to see who could play for Qatar in October,” added the 47-year-old.
Below is the list of players invited for the September friendlies
GOALKEEPERS: Richard Ofori (Orlando Pirates) Abdul Manaf Nurudeen (KAS Eupen) Joseph Wollacott (Charlton Athletic)
DEFENDERS: Denis Odoi (Club Brugge) Tariq Lamptey (Brighton and Hove Albion) Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot) Abdul Rahman Baba (Reading FC) Gideon Mensah (AJ Auxerre) Alexander Djiku (Racing Strasbourg) Mohammed Salisu (Southampton FC) Daniel Amartey (Leicester City) Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo) Stephan Kofi Ambrosius (Karlsruher SC)
MIDFIELDERS: Thomas Partey (Arsenal FC) Iddrisu Baba Mohammed (Real Mallorca) Elisha Owusu (KAA Gent) Daniel-Kofi Kyereh (SC Freiburg) Mohammed Kudus (AFC Ajax) Andre Ayew (Al Sadd FC)
WINGERS: Kamaldeen Sulemana (Stade Rennes) Daniel Afriyie Barnieh (Hearts of Oak) Abdul Fatawu Issahaku(Sporting Lisbon) Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade) Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer (Hamburger SV) Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace) Antoine Selorm Semenyo (Bristol City)
STRIKERS: Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao) Felix Afena-Gyan (US Cremonese)
Dan Owusu, a former player for Ghana, thinks Felix Afena-Gyan and Daniel Afriyie Barnieh need to learn from more experienced players in the national team because they aren’t physically ready for the Black Stars yet.
Dan Owusu, although having a few appearances for the Black Stars, noted that the younger players in the national team have been eclipsed by the more experienced ones.
He contends that the young players must remain reliable enough to succeed the veterans when they leave the Black Stars.
Sharing his own experience in an interview with Koforidua-based Bryt FM, Dan Owusu, who won the Ghana Premier League goal king gong for three consecutive times stated that he went through the same ordeal.
“I joined the Black Stars as a young player but I didn’t get playing time because there were senior players. When they faded out, we succeeded them, and that is how the national team should be”.
“Afriyie is doing well but I think this is not the time to play him at the Black Stars. He is very smallish and players like that normally struggle. To me, it is about being with the team for long and knowing the philosophy”.
“Both Barnieh and Afena-Gyan are not up to the national team level. I think they should just understudy the senior players and I believe with time, they will get there,” the ex-footballer said.
Following the two games the Black Stars played during the international break, Ghanaians have raised a number of concerns about the team.
Ghana defeated Nicaragua 1-0 and fell to Brazil 3-0.
There are problems, many people have said, that need to be fixed before the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup starts.
Ghanaians would prefer to see the squad move past the group stage this time because of Ghana’s disastrous prior performance in the competition, which resulted in a group stage departure.
Before Ghana’s opening match against Portugal in the group stage, GhanaWeb looks at five questions Otto Addo needs to address in their final exhibition game against Switzerland.
What formation best suits the team?
Otto Addo has been experimenting and exploring his formation options in order to find the best fit for his squad.
The manager has tried a variety of systems, but the majority of them are 3-5-2 and 4-2-3-1. He does not appear to have decided which of the two is the best fit.
There are concerns that Otto needs to have a defined system in place for his team before the serious business of the World Cup begins.
The Ayews dilemma
Many believe that Andre Ayew and Jordan Ayew have outlived their usefulness with the Black Stars. The argument has been that the Ayews can be on the team, but they should not be one of the first names on the line-up.
Otto Addo faces a difficult choice between giving in to public pressure or fighting it. In any case, he will be asked questions.
Dennis Odoi or Alidu Seidu?
The Black Stars have three options at right-back: Tariq Lamptey, Denis Odoi, and Alidu Seidu.
Lamptey appears to be the top pick in the pecking order, so he will be in the squad. As a result, Otto Addo will be torn between Alidu Seidu and Dennis Odoi for a backup spot in his final squad.
In the few games they have played, Alidu and Odoi have both proven their worth. Otto must now decide who makes the final list.
Who will lead the frontline for Ghana?
The Black Stars are lacking goals because they lack a prolific goal scorer, which leaves the manager unsure of how to set up his attacking lines to get the goals flowing.
In the games against Brazil and Nicaragua, he played Afena-Gyan and Inaki Williams respectively. He now has to decide which of the two players deserves to start at the World Cup.
Where does Kudus play?
One of Otto Addo’s problems is the role of Kudus Mohammed in his system. Kudus is flourishing at Ajax, where he is a false nine. For the Black Stars, however, he plays in his natural position of offensive midfielder, where many believe he takes far too many touches before releasing the ball.
Hence, Otto Addo must find a role for Kudus that will enable him to work efficiently.
According to coach Otto Addo, the Black Stars World Cup roster has been finalized, and the coaching staff is reasonably certain of the players that will make up the 26-man roster for the journey to Qatar.
According to what he claimed, at least 70% of the athletes who were selected for the September friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua may already be in Qatar.
GhanaWeb examines certain players who were not selected for the squad for the friendlies but could make the final 26-man World Cup roster with some spots still up for grabs.
Alidu Seidu
If Otto Addo’s comments are anything to go by, then Alidu Seidu could make the squad if the differences with the coaching team are resolved.
He was left out not based on form but because Otto Addo was not convinced about his commitment to the team.
The Lens midfielder is seen as the perfect partner and alternative to Thomas Partey whose injuries seem not to be going away.
Jeffery Schlupp
Like Seidu, Schlupp is also another player who despite enjoying game club cannot seem to find his way into the Black Stars.
His issue, as per reports is due to his decision to boycott or prematurely retire from the national team due to some unresolved issues.
With coach George Boateng recently visiting him, there is hope that he could reverse his decision and play for Ghana at the World Cup.
Joseph Paintsil
Another who could also be paying for his previous sins. Joseph Paintsil did not make the squad because he failed to honor previous call-ups in June when the team engaged in AFCON qualifiers and the 2022 Kirin Cup.
Despite his impressive form in the 2022/2023 league, Paintsil was not called as Otto Addo believes he has other options.
Though the wings seem to be packed with talents, Paintsil could get a spot if he continues to rack up the numbers, it will be hard for Otto Addo to overlook him.
Paintsil has been involved in six goals in the ongoing season.
Danlad Ibrahim
The goalkeeping position looked to have been settled with Ofori, Wollacott, and Manaf Nurudeen cementing their place but the continuous clamor for a local representation in the team could swing things in Danlad’s favor.
He is one of the best goalies in the local league and if he continues to impress Asante Kotoko, he could be on his way to Qatar.
Emmanuel Gyasi
The Spezia deputy skipper has surprisingly been left out of the Black Stars call-up in recent times despite consistent football at the club level.
In the Italian Serie A, he has played 8 times this season, polling just one assist but what stands out about him is his work rate and ability to influence play.
He could break into the Ghana team if he adds numbers to his incredible work rate and discipline.
Legendary Ghana forward Dan Owusu has casted doubts about the capabilities of Daniel Afriyie Barnieh and Felix Afena-Gyan at the Black Stars.
The duo made the Black Starsfor friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua. Ghana suffered a 3-0 defeat to the South American giants but recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0.
Afena-Gyan, who plies his trade for Italian side Cremonese featured in the Black Stars defeat to Brazil whiles Afriyie Barnieh made a cameo in the narrow win to Nicaragua on Tuesday.
In an interview with Koforidua-based Bryt FM, Dan Owusu, who won the Ghana Premier League goal king gong for three consecutive times emphasized both Barnieh and Afena-Gyan are not up to the national team standard.
“I joined the Black Stars as a young player but I didn’t get playing time because there were senior players. When they faded out, we succeeded them, and that is how national team should be”
“Afriyie is doing well but I think this is not the time to play him at the Black Stars. He is very smallish and players like that normally struggle. To me, it is about being with the team for long and knowing the philosophy”
“Both Barnieh and Afena-Gyan are not up to the national team level. I think they should just under study the senior players and I believe with time, they will get there”
Former Ghana captain, Asamoah Gyan, has hit out at midfielders of the national team for not passing the ball to strikers who make good runs.
Gyan took to twitter to express his frustration during the Ghana vs Nicaragua friendly, which the Black Stars won 1-0.
Though Gyan does not mention names, it is believed he was referring to Inaki Williams who played as Ghana’s lone striker against the Central Americans.
Throughout the game, Williams made some great dashing runs but the final ball was never passed to him, prompting Gyan to take to twitter to comment on the development.
“A striker makes a good run and no pass. Very frustrating,” he tweeted.
A 35th minute goal from youngster Abdul Fatawu Issahaku gave Ghana victory in Spain in their penultimate pre-World Cup friendly. The team lost 3-0 to Brazil four days earlier.
Ghana will next take on Switzerland in November in their last preparatory game before the World Cup begins on November 20, 2022.
Head coach of the Black Stars, Otto Addo, says Abdul Fatawu Issahaku needs to be more patient and precise with his shooting.
Addo made these comments following Ghana’s narrow win over Nicaragua on Tuesday night in the team’s final friendly of the September international break in Spain.
The Sporting Lisbon winger scored the only goal with a brilliant curler from the many chances the Black Stars created in the game.
The 18-year-old went straight to Ghana’s bench to celebrate his debut goal for the Black Stars with his coach.
When asked about his pre-game conversation with Fatawu, Addo was full of praise for the youngster, whose inclusion in the squad for the September friendlies raised eyebrows.
“He’s a very good winger. He has a powerful shot. Sometimes he needs more patience with the shot and to be more precise instead of hammering it all out.
“This is what I told him; he should feel free, make runs behind the lines, go one-against-one, and when there is a chance, he should use his left foot very gently.
“If he uses it gently, it’s even enough just to be precise and score the goal.”
Since making his Ghana debut in September 2021, the U-20 AFCON winner has made nine appearances for the Black Stars, scoring his first goal on Tuesday against Nicaragua.
Ghana FA president Kurt Okraku has said that the Black Stars will not be underrated by any opponent at the 2022 World Cup.
Ghana eliminated Nigeria in the World Cup playoff on aggregate to qualify for the Mundial in March.
The team has been engaging in a series of friendly games as part of preparations ahead of the tournament.
Ghana lost 3-0 to five-time World Champions Brazil in an international friendly played in France last Friday.
According to Kurt Okraku, despite the Black Stars’ defeat to Brazil, the countries to play Ghana in Group H will not underrate the four-time African champions.
“The group is not easy, there are very good teams, but Ghana is not an easy rival either,” he told deia.eus.
Ghana will open their campaign against Portugal on November 24 at Stadium 974 in Doha.
Four days later, the Black Stars return to action with a clash with South Korea at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.
Ghana will wrap up their group stage adventure with their much-anticipated encounter with Uruguay at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.
A dominant performance from Ghana on Tuesday evening has seen the Black Stars defeat Nicaragua 1-0 in Spain.
The national team of the West African country today locked horns with the Central American national team in a game played at the Estadio Francisco Artes Carrasco.
The game is the second match played by Ghana in the September international break.
Serving as a preparatory match for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Ghana head coach Otto Addo used the opportunity to try new players and tactics.
In a game massively dominated by the Black Stars, the team had the lead at the end of the first half.
It was all thanks to a thunderbolt strike from teenager Abdul Fatawu Issahaku which went into the back of the net after a deflection.
After recess, the Ghana team played very well and created several other chances in a bid to score more goals.
Unfortunately, the efforts of the team could not result in a goal. Eventually, the Ghana national team secured just a narrow 1-0 win at the end of the 90 minutes.
After today’s friendly, Ghana will take on Switzerland in November before the 2022 FIFA World Cup starts in Qatar.
Ghanaian supporters are unhappy with the performance coach Otto Addo and have urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to sack him before the 2022 FIFA World Cup despite the 1-0 victory against Nicaragua.
The Black Stars bounced back to winning ways in Lorca on Tuesday, having lost 3-0 to Brazil last Friday.
Sporting Lisbon winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku scored the only goal of the match in the 35th minute. Ghana wasted a plethora of chances in an unconvincing performance against the central American nation, who are 79 places behind them in the FIFA rankings.
Despite the victory, fans took to social media to call for the sacking of the 47-year-old.
“We need a coach with immediate effect,” Frank Nyame wrote on Facebook adding: “I initially had belief in Addo but his behaviour has demonstrated he has nothing in him.”
Owusu Rossel wrote: “Addo can’t help Ghana 🇬🇭 at the World Cup… it seems everyone is playing his own game… without teamwork,” while Seth Barimah Koranteng opined: “This coach with this great squad will gradually take us into a ditch 🥲🤣😂 he’s even confused.”
Conrad Donny Atakora voiced his concerns: “He’s not serious. We can’t be managing the Black Stars on part time. This man must go!,” while Citizen Immanuel-Best said: “Otto Addo is a scout. Appoint a coach for the Black Stars!”
Fiavi Elawoe wrote: “Anything called Addo leading Ghana is always a disaster,” while Francis Cudjoe explained: “We beg you Otto Addo, kindly step down for us to appoint a new coach before the World Cup, please.”
Ghana will play Switzerland in another preparatory game on November 17, seven days before their opening game at the World Cup against Portugal.
Ghana deputy captain Richard Ofori has pleaded with Ghanaians to have faith in the Black Stars despite uninspiring performance during the international break.
The Black Stars engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.
Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil and recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
A chunk of Ghanaian fans were unhappy about the performances of the Black Stars in the two friendlies played.
But the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper in an interview pleaded with Ghanaians to have faith in the team.
“We won 1-0 and the positive thing about this game is that we created a lot of chances. We beg Ghanaians to have faith in this team and support us.”, he told Peace FM.
Ghana will play one final preparatory game in November against Switzerland before jetting off to the Mundial where they face Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea in Group H of the 2022 World Cup.
Ghana deputy captain Richard Ofori has pointed out some positives from the Black Stars narrow win over Nicaragua on Tuesday night.
The Black Stars engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.
Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil and recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
A chunk of Ghanaian fans were unhappy about the performances of the Black Stars in the two friendlies played.
But the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper in an interview said the good thing about the team is that they were able to create a lot of chances
national team ahead of the mundial.
“We won 1-0 and the positive thing about this game is that we created a lot of chances. We beg Ghanaians to have faith in this team and support us.”, he told Peace FM.
Ghana will play one final preparatory game in November against Switzerland before jetting off to the Mundial where they face Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea in Group H of the 2022 World Cup.
Former Ghana international Augustine Arhinful has expressed worry about the performance of the Black Stars ahead of the World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
Prior to the tournament in the Asian country, the West African powerhouse has engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.
Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil and recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
In an interview with Angel FM, the former Ghana forward expressed displeasure about the performance of the team ahead of the mundial.
“I am worried about our performance. What format and system is Otto Addo using ahead of World Cup? he quizzed.
Ghana will play one final preparatory game in November against Switzerland before jetting off to the Mundial where they face Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea in Group H of the 2022 World Cup.
The Black Stars engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.
Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil but recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.
A chunk of Ghanaian fans were unhappy about the performances of the Black Stars in the two friendlies played.
But according to the Sports Minister, the Black Stars team will be in a good shape before the commencement of the World Cup.
“This is a process, we are building a team and I know that by the time we get to Abu Dhabi where we are going to have our final game, the team would have been so good and Ghanaians would see the difference,” he told Max TV.
Meanwhile, Mustapha Ussif was left to rue missed chances in the Black Stars narrow win over Nicaragua.
“We were expecting more goals in the game but at the end of the day we created a lot of chances but couldn’t convert them into goals,”
Of the 28 players that represented Ghana in the games against Brazil and Nicaragua, 70% of them will be in the squad for the 2022 World Cup, Black Stars coach Otto Addo has said.
The disclosure by Otto Addo means that some of the players will not be on the Black Stars plane to Qatar.
In our review of the games against Brazil and Nicaragua, we look at five players who are unlikely to make the 26-man squad for the World Cup.
The Celta Vigo defender played no part in both games against Nicaragua and Brazil. In the 3-0 defeat to Brazil, Joseph Aidoo was an unused substitute and was not involved against Nicaragua.
With Otto Addo likely to pick four center-backs, it is unlikely that Joseph Aidoo will make the team for Qatar.
His club form could have things change for him.
Alidu Seidu
Seidu was not involved against Brazil but was outstanding against Nicaragua. The Clermont Foot defender was one of Ghana’s best players in the game.
Offensively, he inspired and helped the wingers and was also great defensively.
Based on performance, Alidu Seidu should be in Qatar but it thus appear that coach Otto Addo has settled on Tariq Lamptey and Denis Odoi as his right backs for the World Cup.
Daniel Afriyie Barnieh
The Hearts of Oak forward played just a minute in the two games and it is unlikely that he would be on the plane to Qatar.
He can however change the coaches’ mind if he hits top form for Hearts of Oak like he did last season.
With the campaign for the inclusion of local players in the Black Stars getting louder, Afriyie Barnieh could find a place in the team if he works very hard.
Antoine Semenyo
The forward played a combined 28 minutes in the two matches against Brazil and Nicaragua.
Against Brazil, he came on in the 70th minute and played 8 minutes against Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 28, 2022.
With reports indicating the likes of Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketia could be in the team, Semenyo could be one of the casualties.
Ransford Yeboah
Yeboah was given only 12 minutes in the game against Nicaragua. His movements were okay but not enough to give Ghanaians an indication of what he is about.
The jury is still out for him with regard to his inclusion. His form at club level could however turn things in his favour.
The article is based on the two friendly matches played against Brazil and Nicaragua. Injuries and club performance could change the composition of the final 26-man squad for the World Cup
Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that he was expecting the Black Stars to score more goals in their game against Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 2, 2022.
A goal from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku turned out to be the winner against the North American side.
Speaking after the game, the Minister for Sports lamented the Black Stars’ missed chances in the game.
“We were expecting more goals in the game but at the end of the day we created a lot of chances but couldn’t convert them into goals,” Mustapha Ussif said in an interview with Max TV.
He added that the Black Stars would continue to strive to build a formidable team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
“This is a process, we are building a team and I know that by the time we get to Abu Dhabi where we are going to have our final game, the team would have been so good and Ghanaians would see the difference,” he stated.
Popular Ghanaian broadcaster, Patrick Osei Agyemang, alias Countryman Songo, has described Black Stars coach Otto Addo as a functionally illiterate after the manager gave his team a rating of 7 after a 1-0 victory over Nicaragua.
According to Songo, the manager on a regular day should be getting more than a ten out of ten rating after a friendly against Nicaragua, who are minnows and unknown in football.
In an interview with Pure FM, Songo stated that he will rate the entire team, including the manager, a 0 out of 10.
“If he gave himself 7 out of 10 against Nicaragua then he is functionally illiterate because he should be giving himself 11/10 after playing against Nicaragua, a country that doesn’t know how to play football. He should be having more than 10 out of 10, like 11 over 10. Against Nicaragua and you are giving yourself 7/10? A country that doesn’t know how to play football? A country that doesn’t have a history in football?” he said.
Black Stars goalkeeper, Richard Ofori has begged Ghanaians to have faith in the Black Stars squad after their underwhelming performances against Brazil and Nicaragua.
Despite beating Nicaragua on September 27, Ghanaians slammed the team for an uninspiring performance against the Northern Americans, who are ranked 139th by FIFA.
In an interview with Happy FM, Ofori stated that the victory had many positives and pleaded with Ghanaians to have faith in the team as the 2022 FIFA World Cup approaches.
“We won 1-0 and the positive thing about this game is that we created a lot of chances. We beg Ghanaians to have faith in this team and support us.”, he told Accra-based radio station Happy FM.
Ghana beat Nicaragua 1-0 at the Estadio Francisco Artés Carrasco in Spain to end their September international break with a victory after losing to Brazil.
Fatawu Issahaku scored a brilliant curler to hand Ghana the needed over Nicaragua.
Former player of Accra Hearts of Oak, Esme Mends, has alleged that the current abysmal performance of the Black Stars is caused by football agents.
As preparatory games for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Black Stars on Friday, September 23, 2022, and Tuesday, September 27, played friendly matches against Brazil and Nicaragua.
In the game against Brazil, the Black Stars lost by 3 goals to nil while they concluded their international break by beating Nicaragua by a goal to nil.
The results after the friendlies have created elephantine outcry amongst football enthusiasts and the general public as a whole.
While some are calling for the head of the Coach, Otto Addo, others also believe Ghana doesn’t have the requisite players to play at this year’s football Mundial.
Reacting to the Black Stars’ disappointing performance in the friendlies in an interview on Hot 93.9FM’s ‘Focal Sports’ show – hosted by Stonchist D’Blakk Soulja, Esme Mends without mincing words attributed the abysmal performance of the Black Stars to current football agents.
According to the legendary former Hearts midfielder, ” It’s time we get serious as a country and stop doing business with the Black Stars, let’s be truthful to ourselves and You know it, it has gone on for a very long time”.
The disenchanted Esme Mends stated boldly, “It’s time we stopped football agents from occupying big positions which entice them into influencing player selections”.
The Black stars who will be making their fourth appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar have been placed in Group H.
They are in Group H with Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea, where they will open the tournament with a game against Portugal.
Ghanaian gospel musician, Sonnie Badu, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars technical team and players.
He is of the view that the only challenge militating against the team is the lack of time for coach Otto Addo to prepare the team as well as the inexperience of the young players who form a major part of the squad.
The preacher/musician believes that the team will get into excellent form in the future after they have gotten to know each other and bonded some more.
He also asked for support and prayers for Black Stars coach Otto Addo.
“I think we have a solid technical team. The only problem is this: I don’t think the coach has enough time to prepare the team and all of these young players will be excellent in the future – when they know each other better and they can bond more.
“Additionally, on the World Cup stage we might have a problem with inexperience and lack of bonding. With all of that being said, let us support the coach and pray for him… Yes, “Ghana football has the whole Ghana coaching the #Blackstars it’s been like that and it will never change. I wish the team the best of luck in the World Cup,” Sonnie Badu wrote on his Facebook page.
Otto Addo has come under fire from supporters over his team’s poor run since taking charge of the Black Stars.
The pressure has mounted since Brazil thrashed Black Stars by three goals to nil while the team managed only a goal against a less fancied Nicaraguan side in their recent international friendlies.
He has been scolded mainly on his team selection and tactics.
Former captain of the Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan, popularly known as Baby jet has taken a swipe at the current crop of midfielders of the senior national football team.
According to Gyan, the midfielders are in the habit of not making passes to strikers who responsibility is to score goals.
He made this observation when Black Stars came up against Nicaragua on Tuesday evening.
Inaki Williams played as a lone striker in the match and despite his efforts, the final ball was never passed to him.
In a Twitter post, he wrote ”A striker makes a good run and no pass. Very frustrating.”
A striker makes a good run and no pass. Very frustrating 🤔🤔🤔
Black Stars managed to dominate their game against Nicaragua on Tuesday evening to bring smiles on the face of Ghanaians.
Victory went to the Black Stars as they netted a goal to bring Nicaragua down to their knees.
A curled effort from Fatawu Issahaku in the 35th minute found the back of the net to give Ghana the lead at the end of the first-half.
After the recess, the Black Stars kept pushing for a second goal as Mohammed Kudus was denied twice by the offside flag after putting the ball into the net.
The Black Stars were presented with several opportunities to increase their lead but were unable to take advantage of them.
Prior to this friendly, Ghana faced Brazil last Friday and it was a nightmare for the West African team as they were crippled by three goals to nil.
Meanwhile, Ghana will face Switzerland in November just before their first group game against Portugal in the World Cup.
Former Ghana midfielder Charles Taylor has taken a swipe at Andre Ayew for claiming some senior players in the Black Stars are guaranteed a spot ahead of the World Cup.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, Ayew claimed that some senior players could make the Black Stars squad for the upcoming World Cup.
But his comment has created a heated argument within the footballing fraternity and on Social media.
Taylor in an interview with Onua FM indicated the Al Sadd star does not deserve a place in the national team at the moment.
“If Dede Ayew is saying that the senior players in the Ghana Black Stars team, have qualified to the world cup tournament yet to be played in Qatar, then I think he is wrong. Because senior players are the football players who know how to play football very well, and not a football player who has been in a football team for a very long time.
If what Dede Ayew is saying is the truth, then Sergio Ramos would not sit on bench for a young football player like Pedri to play for the Spanish national football team.
You see, to be honest with you, Dede Ayew does not deserve to be part of the Black Stars squad, Charles Taylor said.
Former Hearts of Oak player, Esme Mends has stated candidly that skipper of the Black Stars Dede Ayew and his junior brother, Jordan Ayew must be dropped from the Black Stars squad.
It would be recalled that Dede Ayew who was playing down suggestions that some players are guaranteed spots in the Black Stars team irrespective of their Club form while speaking in an interview with Daily Graphic admonished that apart from senior players no one is guaranteed a place in the squad just yet.
Dede Ayew’s assertion has created huge controversy within the footballing fraternity and on Social media.
Reacting to Dede’s pronouncement in an interview on Hot 93.9Fm’s ‘Focal Sports’ show – hosted by Stonchist D’Blakk Soulja, the former Hearts of Oak player, Esme Mends disagreed with the Captain of the Black Stars.
According to Esme who is now a Coach, “It’s obviously wrong for Dede to say this, very wrong but you see that’s what happens if you entertain people for long.”
Sounding extremely disdained, the legendary former Hearts of Oak player argued that “I believe as a nation we have entertained the Ayew’s for too long a time in the national team, it’s time we drop them from the team.”
Dede together with his junior brother Jordan were part of the Black Stars team that lost 3:0 to Brazil in Ghana’s first friendly match played in France last Friday ahead of the Qatar World Cup.
Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo has confirmed that the majority of the 29-man squad announced for the September international break will make the final squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
In an interview with Greman newspaper, BILD, the German trainer hinted that he is nearly finished with his squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
Otto Addo stated that 70% of the players he called for the international break will make the final list, while the remaining 30% will be decided on a ‘tight decision.’
“70 percent of the players currently on international duty with Ghana’s squad who meet Nicaragua in Lorca, Spain on Tuesday will be in Qatar,” Addo told Bild.
“The remaining 30 percent will be tight decisions. We’re watching the players closely for the next few games to see who could play for Qatar in October,” he added.
Ghana will conclude their international break with a friendly against Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 18:00 GMT at Estadio Francisco Artés Carrasco in Spain.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has announced his starting team for the friendly match against Nicaragua.
The team is totally different from the one that played against Brazil with as many as 8 changes.
In post, Richard Ofori replaces Jojo Wollacott whiles the injured Alexandre Djiku makes way for Mohammed Salisu at Centre back.
Alidu Seidu comes in for Dennis Odoi with Gideon Mensah enjoying a start over Baba Rahman at left back.
Baba Iddrisu is one of the three survivors and will be partnering Kofi Kyere in central midfield. Issahaku and Osman Bukari are the right and left wingers respectively with Kudus playing behind Inaki Williams.
Below is the team.
Richard Ofori – Alidu Seidu, Daniel Amartey, Mohammed Salisu, Gideon Mensah – Baba Iddrisu, Daniel Kofi Kyereh – Mohammed Kudus, Fatawu Issahaku, Osman Bukari – Iñaki Williams
Black Stars could be without four players for their game against Nicaragua at the Estadio Francisco Artés Carrasco in Spain.
The four players include Alexander Djiku, Tariq Lamptey, Kamaldeen Sulemana and deputy skipper Thomas Partey.
Alexander Djiku, Tariq Lamptey, and Kamaldeen Sulemana are doubtful for the game while Thomas Partey is outrightly ruled due to a knee injury.
Djiku, Lamptey, and Kamaldeen reportedly picked up slight injuries during the team’s second training session in Spain ahead of the game on Tuesday, September 27, 2022.
The duo are therefore expected to miss the match due to precautionary reasons.
Meanwhile, for Thomas Partey, he has been granted permission to return to Arsenal after his knee flared up during warm-up for Ghana’s 3-0 defeat to Brazil.
He was not part of the squad that travelled from France to Spain and is therefore unavailable for the game.
The match comes off on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 18:00 GMT kick-off time.
Black Stars coach, Otto Addo has welcomed Nico Williams’ decision to pledge his allegiance to Spain instead of Ghana.
Nico Williams, the younger brother of Black Stars striker, Inaki Williams was one of three debutantes named in coach Luis Enrique’s squad for the international break.
Otto Addo, who is German-born but played for Ghana, said that while it would have been great to see Nico and Inaki play for Ghana, he respects the players’ decision.
“Together in Ghana? That would’ve been great but his brother decided to play for Spain which is fair, which is as well. Well, we would have loved him in Ghana, surely. I myself was also born in Germany, so you always have two hearts or two homes in your hearts and this is always a difficult decision. We respect that and hopefully, we could play against Spain,” he said during his pre-match presser.
While Nico is with the Spanish national team, his brother Inaki is also with the Black Stars, honouring his debut call-up for the pre-World friendlies.
Both Inaki and Nico had disappointing debuts, as Ghana and Spain were defeated by Brazil and Switzerland, respectively.
Inaki Williams is expected to make his full Ghana debut against Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, while Nico is also in line for his first start for Spain in their game against Portugal also on Tuesday.
The Ghana Black Stars and Nicaragua will battle it out today as the former wraps up its September friendly as preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 continues.
The match takes place at Estadio Francisco Artes Carrasco in Lorca at 18:00 GMT.
The Black Stars will be looking to bounce back to winning ways against the North American country after being thrashed 3-0 by Brazil in Le Harve and with only two games to play before the finals.
Nicaragua are ranked 139th in the World but have seen an improvement in their team performance in recent time following a seven match unbeaten run that ended on Thursday after losing 2-1 to Suriname.
This is will be first ever meeting between both sides in history.
Thomas Parteywill miss the game due to a suspected knee injury, but it still appears that head coach Otto Addo still has a decent squad that can outwit their opponents following a gusty second half display against Brazil on Friday.
The introduction of debutants Salisu Mohammed, Tariq Lamptey and Inaki Williams changed the dimension of the game as the Stars showed class and resilience against the five-time World Champions.
Ghana are paired with Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay in Group H for the World Cup tournament.
Ghana coach Otto Addo is almost through of getting his squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Black Stars is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
The West African powerhouse has been paired in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea.
According to Otto Addo, 70% of the players he invited for this month friendlies will be in Qatar provided they stay healthy.
His comment come after being asked about how he sees Hamburg’s forward Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer.
“My training impressions from Ransford Königsdörffer were good. He did it properly. He’s still very young. But it was our intention to bring young players into our squad. We want to build a strong squad for the future.”
“Ransford is a very good player with great potential. I can’t say yet if he’ll definitely be at the World Cup. 70 percent of the players who are here right now will come to Qatar if they stay healthy. The remaining 30 will be tight decisions. We’re watching the players closely for the next few games to see who could play for Qatar in October.”
Asked if Königsdörffer have a chance at the World Cup, he said, “Of course, otherwise he wouldn’t be here.”
Ghana captain Andre Ayew has said the Black Stars will fight to make impact at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The West African powerhouse is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
Ghana has been paired in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea at the World Cup.
Asked about Ghana’s chances of progressing from the group, the Al Sadd star said, “We have a chanc
e. Nobody sees us as favourites, which is expected. So we know we’re not going into any of the matches as favourites but we’re there to fight and make an impact. No doubt it will be a very difficult group for every team and all we have to do is be ready, focused, determined, full squad and have a bit of luck.
If we have our full squad, we can seriously disrupt a lot of teams. I am not concerned because I know what Ghana is capable of” he told Al Jazeera.
The Black Stars are preparing for the World Cup and will face Nicaragua on Tuesday after last Friday’s defeat to Brazil.
Ayew believes the new additions to the Black Stars team will help the country at the World Cup.
The Al Sadd forward praised the decision of the Europe-born players to switch allegiance and play for Ghana, but adds they have to be determined and ready to give their all.
According to him, no one is guaranteed a place in the Black Stars and is of the view players must fight to earn a place.
Some of the new players, including Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey and Mohammed Salisu made their Black Stars debut against Brazil last Friday.
“The players are good, and qualifying for the World Cup makes you very attractive. Why not let the boys come? The door is open for any Ghanaian who wants to play for and help the country, but you must come with the same determination you put into your club, the same desire, and you cannot expect everything in your European club to be the same in the national team because there is a time for the team to adapt,” he told Al Jazeera.
“I fully support them and wish them the best of luck, especially when you come with a strong desire to succeed. When you have the right attitude and desire to sweat for the Ghana jersey, I am more than willing to welcome you, even though I am not the coach but a longtime member of the team.
“The newcomers are talented, but we already have a strong team that qualified for the World Cup, so every position is competitive. Apart from senior players who may have an advantage, I believe no one is guaranteed a place in the squad just yet. Everyone must prove their quality on the field and everyone has a chance, giving the coach more options and solutions, formations, and I believe it is beneficial to have new players with the right mentality.”
The West African powerhouse is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
Ghana has been paired in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea at the World Cup.
Ahead of the tournament in the Asian country, Andre Ayew, who plies his trade for Al Sadd has disclosed things are in place for the Black Stars to have a successful World Cup.
“Everything is in place for us to have a successful World Cup. We must have the best preparation possible but, most importantly, all of your players must be fit at that time. We played Brazil, we’ll play Nicaragua and Switzerland before the World Cup. They are all big games that will be tough even though they are friendlies.
These matches are beneficial because we put ourselves to the test and come back as a team to maintain bonding and unity. Normally, we have two to three weeks before the World Cup, but this time we only have about nine days. It’s not ideal but we have to adapt” he told Al Jazeera.
The Black Stars are preparing for the World Cup and will face Nicaragua on Tuesday after last Friday’s defeat to Brazil.
Ghana captain Andre Ayew has said the Black Stars will fight to make impact at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The West African powerhouse is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018.
Ghana has been paired in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea at the World Cup.
Asked about Ghana’s chances of progressing from the group, the Al Sadd star said, “We have a chance. Nobody sees us as favourites, which is expected. So we know we’re not going into any of the matches as favourites but we’re there to fight and make an impact. No doubt it will be a very difficult group for every team and all we have to do is be ready, focused, determined, full squad and have a bit of luck.
If we have our full squad, we can seriously disrupt a lot of teams. I am not concerned because I know what Ghana is capable of” he told Al Jazeera.
The Black Stars are preparing for the World Cup and will face Nicaragua on Tuesday after last Friday’s defeat to Brazil.