The Black Stars are on a poor run in 2022 despite managing to secure a World Cup spot within the period.
Since the start of the year, Ghana have played a total of eleven matches and have managed just a single win. In the remaining 10 matches, the team lost five and drew five.
Ghana’s only win so far this year came against Madagascar during the 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifiers in May.
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Since beating Madagascar to end an initial six-match winless run, Ghana have gone four games without recording a victory, losing two of those games.
Ghana’s poor record in 2022 started in January when the Black Stars lost 3-0 to Algeria in a pre-AFCON friendly.
On Friday, September 23, Brazil handed Ghana their fifth defeat of the year, hammering the West African powerhouse 3-0 in an international friendly in France.
Head coach Otto Addo and his chargers will be looking to end their current four games winless run when they come up against Nicaragua, who are ranked 139th ranked by FIFA.
The match comes off on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 18:00 GMT kick-off time.
Black Stars skipper, Andre Ayew has said his only aim is to steer the Black Stars to win a major trophy (the Africa Cup of Nations or the World Cup).
The West African country have not won any major trophy since winning the 1982 AFCON in Libya.
The Black Stars have come close to ending the trophy drought in 1992, 2010, and 2015.
The 32-year-old has been with the national team for almost a decade and a half, having risen through the ranks after making his debut in 2008.
Ayew was a key member of the all-conquering side that swept the U20 AFCON and U20 FIFA World Cup titles in 2009 and was also a member of the team that lost the AFCON 2010 and AFCON 2015 to Egypt and Ivory Coast respectively.
With Ghana preparing to grace the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the former Swansea City star insists his only goal is to win a trophy with his country.
According to him, he wants to end his career by winning either the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) or the FIFA World Cup.
“For myself, to be real, I don’t have personal targets. The only personal target I had— and still have — since I joined the Black Stars was to win a trophy with the team,” Ayew told Graphic Sports.
“That’s my only target and I’ve been close several times (the 2010 AFCON and 2015 AFCON final).
“I won the Under-20 AFCON and won the Under-20 World Cup trophies, but my only target is to win a trophy in the Black Stars jersey, any trophy that I can win — AFCON or the World Cup trophy. That’s my goal, that’s my aim and that’s what I pray and work hard for every day.”
Ayew was named in the starting line-up as Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil in an international friendly last Friday in France.
The Al Sadd forward is expected to feature again when the Black Stars take on Nicaragua in their next friendly assignment on Tuesday.
Ghanaian gospel musician, Sonnie Badu believes Jojo Wollacott is not gifted enough to be Ghana’s safest pair of hands at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
With just a few weeks to the World Cup, Ghana’s goalkeeping department has become a worry for fans after the Black Stars flaws were uncovered in their 3-0 defeat to Brazil.
According to Sonnie Badu, the Black Stars need goalkeeper who is good at communicating and commanding his defence.
He suggested that the coach Otto Addo must consider making Orlando Pirates goalkeeper, Richard Ofori the number one for the Black Stars although he believes Jojo Wollacott can be Ghana’s ‘best shot stopper’ in future.
“In all honesty, I am very worried about our goalkeeper. It’s not that he’s not good, but I think in time he will be one of our best shot-stoppers,” Sonnie Badu stated in a post on Facebook.
“However, for now, we need a very confident keeper who has great command at the back and in the pole and also communicates clearly.
“I hardly saw him saying a word at the back, maybe they don’t get it, because with Ghana Blackstars you play with passion. I think the coach should strongly consider using Ofori as our number 1 … Well, I guess he knows better. #Ronaldo will be waiting for us with his free kicks,” he stated.
Jojo Wollacott conceded three goals in Ghana’s 3-0 defeat to Brazil in a friendly match played on September 23rd, 2022.
Nicaragua will go head-to-head with Ghana at the Estadio Francisco Artés Carrasco on September 27, 2022.
This will be the first meeting between the two countries and the Nicaraguans will be feeling confident about winning the tie.
Nicaragua are ranked 139th by FIFA but they are in some decent form juxtaposed with Black Stars.
In their last five matches, the North American side have won three, lost one and drew one.
They beat Trinidad and Tobago 2-1, drew two-all with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and beat Bahama 0-2 and 4-0 in a doubleheader before losing Suriname 2-1.
Ghana, on the other hand, are without a win in their last four matches losing two and drawing two.
The match comes off on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at 18:00 GMT kick-off time.
Vice-captain of the Black Stars, Thomas Partey, is reported to have left the team’s camp to return to London after missing Friday night’s friendly against Brazil.
According to reports, the Arsenal star is expected to also miss Ghana’s second friendly of this international window against Nicaragua in Spain next week.
Partey only returned from injury last weekend to play 78 minutes for Arsenal in their Premier League win against Brentford.
He was then invited for the Black Stars games against Braziland Nicaragua but he will end up not playing in ant of these two games.
The 29-year-old is expected back in London for scans on his knee which flared up before the Ghana- Brazil friendly.
The midfielder was said to have felt uncomfortable around his knee area during the warm-up and was advised to pull out.
However, a member of the Black Stars medical team confirmed to Joy Sports his withdrawal was only precautionary and that the player should be fine for the against Nicaragua.
Papson Entertainment’s musician, Bobo Dada Bee, has released his first single after successfully signing onto the record label.
The new single is titled ‘Celebrate’ and features Quamina MP. And he wants the GFA to pay and use his song for the Black Stars ahead of the World Cup.
‘Celebrate’ is Bobo Dada Bee’s way of expressing his excitement following his recent signing and all the great things his new record label, Papson Entertainment, is going to give him as they work together.
This brand-new song by Bobo Dada Bee is a modern party song that discusses several subjects that inspire people to prioritize their time at all stages of life, make the necessary changes when they’re needed, and live a wonderful life.
Following its release, Bobo Dada Bee is making some remarks that are causing a stir online.
According to him, the Ghana Football Association should give him about a million dollars to make this song an official song for the Black Stars ahead of their world cup campaign because the song will supposedly motivate the Ghana national football team to win many games.
As we wait for a response from the GFA, the audio and video of the song are available for streaming on every digital store.
Bobo Dada Bee’s ‘Celebrate’ is produced by Kinnie Beat and mixed by the award-winning producer Willis Beat.
Bobo Dada Bee recently signed a long-term managerial deal with Papson Entertainment at a beautiful event in Takoradi.
Following the signing, the award-winning rapper was given a brand-new car by the label and many other items.
Just as football people often agitate for a competent foreign coach for the Black Stars, Hiplife artiste Tinnybelieves Ghana music industry will be way better off if the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA)is manned by a foreigner with a lot of industry expertise.
Although he did not have anyone in particular in mind, Tinny made the advocacy for an expatriate manager because he expected MUSIGA to be a force to be reckoned with globally by now, having had Ghanaian running the musicians’ body since its incorporation in 1975. For him, a foreigner with industry management expertise is needed to turn around the fortunes of the sector.
Asked why he thought someone from outside the country would do the job better, Tinny explained to the Graphic Showbiz, saying, “the way we go in for foreign coaches for the Black Stars, we need to do same for our industry. We need a foreigner to manage our industry for us and I am sure there is so much we can learn from whoever takes charge. He or she will impact positively on our industry so we really need to give it a thought.
“Even though the new crop of musicians are doing well flying high the flag of Ghana, the industry will be much better off if a foreigner handles MUSIGA. The person can bring something meaningful to the sector.
As a key stakeholder who wanted to see a change in the industry, Tinny was not ready to consider vying for MUSIGA president some day. “Never, never, I am not interested. If I have to become MUSIGA President, I have to go back to school and learn the rudiments of running such an organisation, I just can’t get up and say I have talent so I want to lead the Union, it doesn’t work that way,” he stated.
When asked what he would like to see changed in the industry, the artiste behind the hit song I Believe I Can Fly made a surprise U-Turn. “Change about the industry? Do we really have an industry at all? I don’t think so and I have spoken about it before.
“Well, the up and coming ones and those who have dropped hits in recent times are doing a great job, they need to be commended. You know, the industry is not like it used to be back in the day. Now, one can just go on the Internet and come out with something without too much hustle.
“Some people have also chosen one trend that they want to do and that is fine. One cannot talk too much about talent these days because that is not what people are really basing their craft on” he added.
Touching on how he gets by since he is not producing hit songs anymore, Tinny (also known as Aletse) said,“I survive because I am not just a musician but a businessman as well and even though I am not producing hits, I perform all the time.
“I have performed at about seven festivals this year, in fact, I perform all the time because I have evergreen songs which have stood the test of time so I am surviving 100 per cent”, he said.
Reacting to a recent social media post made by Wendy Shay that Nigerians should be given credit for taking Afrobeats to the world, Tinny shared same sentiment saying, “I totally agree with Wendy Shay, what she said is the truth and she couldn’t have put it any better.”
Advising up and coming musicians, Tinny asked them to be themselves, “Just be yourselves, it is better your fans will know you for who you are than your carbon copy self. Let them know you and know that you are down to earth, be original.
‘’People who will say you can’t do it, it is better you stay away from people who will distract you because they will be an impediment to your progress, just avoid such people,’’ he said.
The Black Stars on September 23 suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Brazil in their first pre-World Cup friendly.
Black Stars conceded 3 goals under 40 minutes in Friday’s friendly match at the Stade Océane leaving several fans disappointed.
Rapper Guru who keenly followed the match and performance of the players opined that the team wasn’t fit to play in the 2022 World Cup.
“We are not ready 4 the World Cup” Guru tweeted adding that he wasn’t impressed with the performance of the team’s new coach, Otto Addo “Coach wei paaa hmm ma try ma kwer.”
The ‘Lapaz Toyota’ hitmaker rated Mohammed Salisu as the best player in the Black Stars.
Guru urged the team to go back to the drawing board and correct all their wrongs before the World Cup in November.
Meanwhile, the rapper has maintained that the exclusion of Asamoah Gyan from the team has had a negative impact , adding that those who called for this exist are now feeling his absence.
“Now u go respect am,” read the rapper’s tweet dated September 23.
Check out the posts below:
Team no “ ENKO YIE “ Herh sleepless night Ben no no .🥹
Black Stars assistant coach George Boateng says the addition of new players will strengthen the team ahead of the World Cup.
Europe-born players including Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey, Patrick Pfeiffer, Stephan Ambrosius, and Ransford-Yeboah Konigsdorffer all switched nationality in July to play for the West African powerhouse.
Mohammed Salisu, who was reluctant to accept Ghana call up has also join the national team.
Out of the six, five were called up for the friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua with Pfeiffer missing out.
Boateng, who recently resigned as Aston U23 coach, is adamant that these additions will only strengthen the team.
In-form Ghana winger Joseph Paintsil has sent well wishes to the Black Stars team ahead of their game against Brazil on Friday, September 23.
The Black Stars will take on Brazil in their first international friendly on Friday, September 23rd in France before travelling to Spain to play Nicaragua on September 27th.
 
Despite missing out in Otto Addo’s 29-man squad, the enterprising Genk winger has wished the team well ahead of the Brazil encounter.
“All the best guys” he tweeted while replying to a tweet from the Black Stars official page.
Ghana captain, Andre Ayew has promised that the Black Stars of Ghana will pose a strong challenge to the Selecao of Brazil when both teams lock horn on Friday in an international friendly match.
The match is expected to take place in Le Harve, France before the Black Stars jet out to Spain for another friendly against Nicargaua on September 27.
According to Ayew, Brazil is the best in the world with the quality of players they have playing for top clubs in Europe.
He, however, stated that they will be unintimidated by that when they face the Samba boys.
He said at a pre-match conference, “Brazil for me is currently the best in the world. So we are playing the best and we have to acknowledge that they have players playing in the top clubs week-in-week-out, winning trophies.
“We are not going to compare ourselves to them. That will be making mistake. But we are going to challenge and go into the battle. That’s 100%.”
Ghana could surprise a few in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar as their potential starting XI is packed with quality.
In the 2022 tournament, Ghana will be one of five representatives from Africa alongside Senegal, Cameroon, Tunisia and Morocco.
Against all odds, the Black Stars reached the quarters finals of the 2010 world cup in South Africa and was one penalty away in stoppage time from getting through to the semis but Asamoah Gyan failed to convert and Ghana ended up losing in a penalty shootout.
They qualified for the latest edition of the tournament by getting the better of Nigeria on away goals in a two legged play off.
It was Arsenal man Thomas Partey’s away goal that made the difference.
Ghana will be in Group H alongside Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea. A tough group to navigate through but they could shock a few as they have some good quality within their
The Black Stars have been busy recruiting players as they have managed to lure the likes of Inaki Williams and Tariq Lamptey to switch their allegiances.
Chelsea winger Callum Hudson Odoi, who is currently on loan at German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen could also represent Ghana.
Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah is also being targeted by the Black Stars as they look to gather the best squad possible ahead of their opening match in November.
Here is a potential starting XI for Ghana.
GK – Joe Wollacott (Charlton Athletic)
RB – Tariq Lamptey (Brighton)
CB – Mohammed Salisu (Southampton)
CB – Daniel Amartey (Leicester City)
LB – Gideon Mensah (Auxerre)
CDM – Thomas Partey (Arsenal)
CDM – Iddrisu Baba (RCD Mallorca)
RM – Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace)
CAM – Mohammed Kudus (Ajax)
LM – Kamaldeen Sulemana (Rennes)
ST – Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Mohammed Kudus could be the next big star after his impressive performances for Ajax so far this season. Kudus scored the equaliser with a stunning finish at Anfield against Liverpool earlier in the month.
Though the Dutch champions lost the match 2-1 after a late Joel Matip winner, Kudus drew plaudits from many fans for his performance.
How far will Ghana get in the world cup? Let us know in the comments
The match tickets for Ghana’s international friendly match against five-time World Cup champions Brazil have been sold out hours before kick-off on Friday.
The Black Stars tackle the Seleçao in a pre-World Cup preparatory game at the Stade Océane in France with kick-off at 18:30 GMT
The Stade Océane (or Grand Stade du Havre) is a football stadium in Le Havre, France. Its capacity is 25,178 all-seated and it is the home ground of Le Havre AC.
It replaces the Stade Jules Deschaseaux as the club’s home stadium.
Its inauguration was 12 July 2012, with a friendly fixture between Le Havre AC and Lille.
GHANAsoccernet.com can confirm that match tickets printed for the upcoming match were sold out at Thursday, September 22, 2022.
This has left many other people who were interested in attending the game worried.
Brazil will be parading super stars like Neymar, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Vinicius Jr, Casemiro amongst others to face the four-time African champions.
The Black Stars aren’t left of the super stars as they also come into the game with names such as Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey and Mohammed Kudus.
Tariq Lamptey is set to make his senior international debut when Ghana play Brazil in an international friendly at Oceane Stadium in Le Havre, France.
Both nations will be using the game to shape up ahead of the 2022 World Cup to be played in Qatar from November 20 to December 18.
Ghana are among the five Africa nations in the prestigious competition alongside Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana and Cameroon.
Who is Tariq Lamptey?
The youngster was born in Hillington, England on September 30, 2000, to Ghanaian parents. His father Ahmed Lamptey named him Tariq meaning ‘Morning Star’ in Arabic. The skillful wing-back is second-born to a family of three, all brothers.
Ghana legend Michael Essien was Lamptey’s role model and at the age of eight, he joined the Chelsea Academy to make his dream of becoming a professional footballer a reality.
In the 2016/17 campaign, he helped the U18s win the Premier League and went on to win several individual awards as a teenager.
When did Lamptey make his Chelsea senior debut?
After his exploits in the youth team, the Ghanaian was promoted to the senior team by the then Blues coach Frank Lampard in 2019. His debut came on December 29 of the same year when he replaced Fikayo Tomori in the 2-1 Premier League win against Arsenal.
He made two more senior team appearances for the Londoners – against Nottingham Forest and Hull City – both in the FA Cup, before leaving the club for his current team Brighton & Hove Albion.
When did Lamptey join Ghana?
Despite his undoubted talent, the skillful defender could not break into the England national senior team despite being a regular for the U18s and later on the U21s.
The Ghanaian FA contacted the player in July 2020 urging him to consider representing the Black Stars in the senior team category. However, he was undecided on the move and was even part of the England U21 team that played in the 2023 European U21 Championship qualifiers.
Eventually, the defender was convinced to switch his allegiance to represent Ghana internationally in July 2022.
“I am happy that everything is completed with Fifa and I am able to play for Ghana. I thank God for giving me this opportunity, I would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making this happen,” Lamptey said via Twitter on September 7.
“I am really excited to start this journey and looking forward to representing Ghana. I can’t wait to play in front of you amazing fans. Thank you for the warm welcome let’s go!”
What is the immediate assignment for Lamptey?
After playing against the Samba Boys on Friday, September 23, Lamptey is expected to feature again for the Black Stars against Nicaragua four days later. There is another friendly scheduled for November 11 with Switzerland.
The biggest assignment for Lamptey will be to help Ghana perform well in the World Cup. The team has been placed in Group H alongside Portugal, Uruguay, and North Korea.
Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association [GFA], Henry Asante Twum says Otto Addo is building a team that will be difficult for opponents to crack down on.
Otto Addo’s side will be tested when they come up against Brazil in an international friendly at the Le Harve in France.
New players who switched nationality, Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed, and other players are expected to make their debut for the team.
“I think we have a good team. I think we are building a very strong team. A team with Joseph Wollacot, Tariq Lamptey, Alidu Seidu, Baba Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Ambrosius, Salisu, Dziku, Inaki Williams, Issahaku, etc,” the Communications Director told SVTV Africa.
“These are top professionals, and if you can build a team out of these names, you will be unbeatable. We have quality in the team. Age is on our side. On average, we have a team that has 22-year-olds. It indicates that the future is bright and the future stars tomorrow.”
He added that he doesn’t expect any new additions to the team ahead of the World Cup.
“As things stand, I can confidently say no. We’ve gone through a long journey with the qualifications and have tested the players. I’m sure your question has to do with bringing in some of the players whose names have popped up, but as things stand, I don’t think that is likely to happen.
“I wouldn’t say when a player is doing well in Europe or the domestic front, he wouldn’t be given the chance. I’m not in a position to say that. Anything is possible,” Henry added.
The game has been scheduled to kick off at 18:30GMT. The Black Stars will take on Nicaragua on Tuesday in another friendly game.
The games form part of Ghana’s preparations for the 2022 World Cup which kick off from November 200 to December 18.
Ghanaians are feeling confident about the Black Stars beating Brazil in an international friendly on Friday, September 23, 2022.
Ghana kick off their preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup with a big test against the five-time world champions, whom they have not beaten in four meetings.
Ghanaians on social media are in an optimistic mood as many believe the Black Stars are capable of recording their first victory over Brazil today at the Stade Oceane.
Meanwhile, there is a who opined that the World’s number one ranked team will take Ghana for a ride and trash the four times African Champions.
The match is set at 18:30 kickoff time at the Stade Océane in France.
Check out some reactions below:
The way Ghanaians get vim give the Brazil game dey bee me waa . The love is truly back
Former Black Stars player, Anthony Baffoe believes playing against Brazil’s world-class players alone is a big motivation for the Black Stars.
He noted that players like Manchester United’s Casimero and Paris Saint Germain’s Neymar are enough to psyche the Black Stars up for their big game against the Brazilians.
“I think in a game like that you don’t need a lot of motivation, you are playing the Casimeros, the Neymars who are great players who have world-class representation, this is a very big motivation,” he said.
According to him, coach Otto Addo’s tactics would be put to a test in this game. He also noted that he is eager to see how the blend of new players plus experienced ones would fare in the game.
“Come back to our squad, I have a lot of confidence in our squad, we have speed in our squad, experience mixed with youngsters and we have a fantastic coaching team.
“It’s an important game, how we get our tactics right against a world-class team so I’m very eager to see how we will operate. We have a lot of newcomers in the team…
“I’m very happy with the current form of Kudus, Kamaldeen, Denis Odoi…,” Tony Baffoe said.
The Black Stars will take on the five-time world champions, Brazil on Friday, September 23 in Le Harve at 18:30 GMT [6:30 pm].
Red Star Belgrade winger is delighted to be part of the Black Stars squad preparing for international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua.
Bukari has been outstanding since joining the Serbian giants, scoring seven goals in all competitions, and his inclusion in the squad for the games is well deserved.
The 23-year-old and his teammates are in France, where they will play five-time world champions on Friday in Le Havre.
Following their match in Brazil, they will travel to Spain to face Nicaragua, who are ranked 139th in the world by FIFA.
Bukari expects to play in both games and is excited about it.
“Always an honour to be in the national colours, feels good to be back with the boys. Let’s go Ghana” he tweeted.
Like the Black Stars of Ghana, the Seleção Brazil held their final training session for today’s game in France.
With the full complement of their squad, coach Tite and his technical team wrapped up preparations by practicing set-pieces, and penalties and assessing the sharpness of their goalkeepers.
PSG star, Neymar who suffered a slight knock has recovered fully and took part in the training.
Just like the Black Stars who appear relaxed and confident, the Brazilians also had fun and had smiles on their faces.
The likes of Richarlison, Vinicius Jnr, Allison, Thiago Silva, and other stars participated in the exercise.
Meanwhile, trusted Brazilian newspaper Globo is predicting that coach Tite will go for a three-back system against Ghana.
Their predicted lineup has Liverpool goalie, Allison in post with Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, and Eder Miltao as the three center-backs.
In midfield, they go for a two-man midfield with Casemiro sitting deep alongside Alex Telles of Manchester United.
Vinicius Jnr and Raphinha both flank Neymar and Lucas Paqueta in the central midfield and central attacking midfield roles.
The lone striker is Tottenham’s Richarlison who per the report has been picked over Liverpool’s Robert Firmino.
Former Black Stars defender Samuel Osei Kuffour has urged the Black Stars players to approach the Brazil match with the intention of playing for themselves and their families.
He professed that the Black Stars would be coming up against some of the world-class players and must show the world their best performance in the match.
According to him, the atmosphere in the Ghana camp exudes harmony and unity which gives confidence to the squad.
“It’s going to go well, everybody is excited to be in camp, the most important thing is that they gel very well. There is harmony, unity, so much fun that I can see,” the ex-Ghana international said.
He added, “we playing against world-class players, we are playing against Brazil, so they have to play for their selves, family and Ghana, so it’s going to be an exciting game.”
The Black Stars will take on the five-time world champions, Brazil on Friday, September 23 in Le Harve at 18:30 GMT [6:30 pm].
Mohammed Kudus is expected to start in the striking role for the Black Stars in their pre-World Cup friendly against Brazil.
As hinted by Otto Addo, the Ajax man will be tried in the role to see his preparedness for the World Cup as a number 9.
Per reports from people close to the team, Kudus will be flanked by Andre Ayew and Inaki Williams who will be making his debut for Ghana.
In midfield, it is expected to be the regular partnership of Baba Iddrisu and Thomas Partey with Dennis Odoi and Baba Rahman as the right and left wing-backs respectively.
The three-man defense will have Amartey in a familiar right-sided center-back role, Djiku as the middleman and Mohammed Salisu making his debut as the left-sided center-back.
Per the reports and photos from training Ghana’s 3-4-3 lineup will be;
Jojo Wollacot – Daniel Amartey – Alexandre Djiku- Mohammed Salisu – Dennis Odoi – Baba Rahman – Baba Iddrisu – Thomas Partey – Inaki Williams – Mohammed Kudus – Andre Ayew.
With this lineup, Ghana intends to create overloads in midfield and stifle the Brazilian attack by dominating from the middle. It also means that when attacking, the wingers – Andre Ayew and Inaki – will drift in centrally and act as auxiliary strikers to allow the wing-backs to take over the wing positions.
There are also reports that Otto Addo might go for the 4-4-2 system which is a system we are yet to see him play.
That setup will most likely have Wollacott in the post, Alexandre Djiku and Mohammed Salisu as the central defensive pair with Dennis Odoi and Baba Rahman as the full-backs.
In midfield, there will be Baba Iddrisu and Thomas Partey with Jordan Ayew and Inaki Wiliams as wingers.
Andre Ayew and Mohammed Kudus will be the top two.
Below is the 4:4:2 lineup Wollacott – Dennis Odoi – Baba Rahman – Mohammed Salisu – Alexandre Djiku – Baba Iddrisu – Thomas Partey – Jordan Ayew – Inaki Williams – Andre Ayew – Mohammed Kudus.
Former Black Starlets midfielder Sebastian Barnes has disclosed that he did not get a Black Stars Call up because many leaders in Ghanaian football at the time believed he was disrespectful.
Speaking on SVTV Sports with Oscar Nuwati, the 1991 U-17 World Cup winner revealed that he was tagged disrespectful because of his haircut and ear piercing. According to him, former Black Stars coach Otto Pfister told him the leaders always had unpleasant things to say about him.
“Every footballer would regret not playing for the national team. If you are not strong, you won’t be able to move on. Otto Pfister called me before Senegal 1992, and he said that the leaders always had something to say when my name came up.
I was the first to get that haircut and ear piercing while at Bayer Leverkusen. So whenever I came to Ghana, they said I was disrespectful because of the haircut. They don’t even want to call you even if you are talented. That is why I never got a call-up,” he revealed.
Speaking on the current Black Stars coach, Otto Addo, Sebastian noted that “we all know our style of play. Even when we qualified it, it was not the style of play that Ghanaians know. Let’s leave it for the coach to see how impressive we are after the first match at the World Cup.”
According to Barnes, the Black Stars can only win a trophy if the GFA go back to the jersey with the national colours. He believes that it is the only way the players would play wholeheartedly.
“Back then, we were happy by wearing the jersey with the red, gold, and green alone. And we know that we have to die for the country. They wear white now, so what kind of feeling is the player going with? They must bring back the jersey for the boys to know that they have to die for the colours they are wearing,” Barnes added.
The 1993 Black Starlets captain is a coach for a U-17 club in Germany. Sebastian began coaching in 2010. He mentioned that he is ready to coach any national teams or major clubs in Ghana.
Africa Brazil take on ‘original’ Brazil in a match that will give an indication of the preparedness of both countries for the 2022 World Cup which is less than two months away.
In their fifth meeting in all competitions, the Samba Boys of Brazil battle with a newly-look Ghana side that for decades lived under the tag ‘the Samba boys of Africa’.
With the benefit of four days of training which is a rarity in international football with respect to friendly matches, coach Otto Addo has had the benefit of assessing 28 of the 29 players he invited for the game.
With the game set for later today, Here are highlights certain things that Ghanaians can look out for in Otto Addo’s team.
Otto Addo’s formation
Ghana’s first two matches at the World Cup are against countries dominated by stars and of a higher profile than the Black Stars.
The game against Brazil is expected to give an inkling into how Otto Addo will approach games against countries with better players and profiles than Ghana.
Will he go for a conservative 3-5-2 system or an expansive and attacking 4-2-3-1? This is one of the headaches Otto Addo will have to cure.
Performance of new players
Much of the pre-match hype has been around the arrival of Tariq Lamptey, Inaki Williams, Ransford Yeboah, Stephan Ambrosius and Mohammed Salisu.
It is expected that at least two of them will start the game and Ghanaians will be watching with an eagle eye how they will fare.
For most people, the performance of the new players will determine the prudency or otherwise in the GFA’s successful attempt to lure them from England, Germany and Spain.
Is he going to start as a striker or central attacking midfielder? The Ajax man has thrived in his ‘false nine’ role for his club but in the Black Stars can he replicate that form?
The Black Stars lack a reliable goal-scorer and Otto Addo, as he hinted in the pre-match presser might try Kudus in that role.
If the gamble works, Ghana has found a reliable source for goals, if it doesn’t, more headache for Otto Addo.
Overall Team performance
For most people, the scoreline will not be as important as the performance. Whiles, there is a minute sense of confidence that Ghana could beat Brazil, the general impression is that Ghana will lose but how they lose is the issue.
The performance of the team against Brazil will either make Ghanaians confident about the prospect of facing Portugal and Uruguay or make them give up even before the World Cup kicks off.
How Brazil stars will fare against a determined Ghanaian side
Neymar, Thiago Silva, Vinicius, Marquinhos, Allison, Ederson among others. The Brazilian team has a galaxy of stars who on a good day can perform magic and wallop any team with an embarrassing scoreline.
Football has however thought us that you don’t necessarily need the best of players but rather a group of hungry and determined players. In the Black Stars team, most players will be playing for their World Cup ticket and so will go in with full determination to impress Otto Addo and the three other coaches.
Question is, can Brazil cope with the determined Ghanaian players.
According to Kurt Okraku, the Black Stars who are the four-time champions of Africa are prepared to face the five-time world champions in the friendly match on Friday, September 23rd 2022.
“We are the Brazilians of Africa and we are playing against the Brazilians of America. We fear no foe, we will be up to the battle,” the GFA boss told TV3.
He explained that the international friendly matches lined up for the Black Stars are aimed at meeting a certain target to get the Black Stars well prepared for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
He also stated that the performance of the Black Stars is the most important compared to the results of the match.
“There is a reason we are engaged in these two games and it’s important we meet the expectation of the technical team as far as these two games are concerned.
“I’m not thinking too much about the results it would be nice if the boys put up a good team performance and cup it up with a victory. I have been speaking with the players, coaches throughout and I know what they expect and I know what they want to achieve from these two important games even before the last one against Switzerland.
“At the end of these two games we expect to be at a certain level of our preparations and that would set the tone for our campaign.
The Black Stars will take on the five-time world champions, Brazil on Friday, September 23 in Le Harve at 18:30 GMT [6:30pm].
Black Stars coach, Otto Addo has disclosed that Ghana’s starting team to face Brazil would be based on the performance of players at club level and in training.
Coach Otto Addo is spoilt for choice as he has 28 out of the 29-man squad he invited for the game.
Coach Otto Addo has explained that players with good performance in their recent matches would be given the nod to start the match.
“This is the way we want to have it; we want our players to have success at their clubs, we want them to score but also to defend well, to play well, and have assisted. So, it’s not only about scoring. Surely scoring is the obvious thing for everybody but we are monitory all the players and looking at their performances.
“This is for us the measurement. Previous games, performance at their clubs, and they are still training. Also, our style of play, our opponent players, and what we need going into the game. The performances at the club are taking a big part in the decision-making.
“We try to bring everything together and then we take a decision. It is very complex, but in the end, we will decide.”
The Black Stars will take on the five-time world champions, Brazil on Friday, September 23 in Le Harve.
Former Black Stars management committee member, Moses Armah Parker has said the current Black Star squad will surpass Ghana’s best finish at the World Cup set in 2010.
The Medeama owner believes the Black Stars look much strong with the inclusion of Inaki William and Tariq Lamptey, who recently switched nationality.
“Current Black Stars setup will beat the previous record set in 2010. Otto Addo is a great coach. With likes of Inaki Williams, and Tariq Lamptey coming in, it makes us much stronger,” told TV3
In 2010, Ghana came close to becoming the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup but suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Uruguay.
Ghana will look to beat the record in the forthcoming World Cup in Qatar. The Black Stars have been drawn in Group H World Cup alongside Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament is scheduled for November 21 to December 18.
Director of Communications for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has noted that the national team will be unbeatable at this year’s World Cup with the current squad named by the technical team.
In an interview on SVTV Sports, Asante Twum indicated that the technical team have gone through a lot of processes to come up with the current squad and is building a strong team to represent Ghana. He mentioned that with such top football professionals playing for some of the leading clubs in the world, the Black Stars stand a chance at the upcoming tournament.
“I think we have a good team. I think we are building a very strong team. A team with Joseph Wollacot, Tariq Lamptey, Alidu Seidu, Baba Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Ambrosius, Salisu, Dziku, Inaki Williams, Issahaku, etc.
These are top professionals, and if you are able to build a team out of these names, you will definitely be unbeatable. We have quality in the team. Age is on our side. On average, we have a team that has 22-year-olds. It indicates that the future is bright and the future stars tomorrow,” the Communications Director said.
Moreover, the host of SVTV Sports, Oscar Nuwati, quizzed Henry about the speculations of adding more players to the current Black Stars squad. However, Asante Twum disclosed that there won’t be any more additions to the squad before the World Cup tournament in Qatar.
“As things stand, I can confidently say no. We’ve gone through a long journey with the qualifications and have tested the players. I’m sure your question has to do with bringing in some of the players whose names have popped up, but as things stand, I don’t think that is likely to happen.
I wouldn’t say when a player is doing well in Europe or the domestic front, he wouldn’t be given the chance. I’m not in a position to say that. Anything is possible,” Henry added.
Brighton & Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey speaks for the first time ahead of Black Stars friendly matches against the Selecao and Nicaragua.
The 21-year-old right back was included in the Black Stars squad by coach Otto Addo for the first time ever after shifting his allegiance to represent the West African nation ahead of England.
Lamptey, who was born in England to Ghanaian parents, had already represented the Young Lions at U18 and U21 level before Ghana Football Association approached him to shift his nationality, which he obliged and was confirmed in July, 2022.
Lamptey is not the only player to have changed his nationality in the Black Stars squad for the two build-up matches. Addo also named Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams alongside Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu, and Stephan Ambrosius, who features for 2. Bundesliga club Karlsruher SC on loan from Hamburger SV.
Speaking for the first time after the Black Stars had concluded their training session at the Le Stade du Commandant Herbert in France on Tuesday, Lamptey told Ghana FA media team: “Training has been really good. Getting to know everybody. There is very high quality here and we are working hard in training and listening to what the coach has to say.
“Everyone has been fantastic, everyone has been welcoming, it feels like a family here. It’s been so good. I’m very proud to be here and I’m really just trying to train hard to give the best I can for the team.”
He added: “I’m looking forward to the game on Friday. In this game, we are preparing very well and we all want to be ready for Friday.”
With the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar just around the corner, Lamptey will hope to use the build-up matches as a stepping stone to winning the heart of the Black Stars’ technical bench and make the squad for the world competition.
Black Stars new boy Ransford Yeboah Konigsdorffer cracked the ribs of Asamoah Gyan, Jonathan Mensah, Kwesi Appiah and others with his dance moves at the initiation ceremony held in the Black Stars camp on Wednesday, September 21, 2022.
Ransford Yeboah Konigsdorffer who is one of the Black Stars’ newbies left many laughing as he performed some funny dance moves which has gone viral on social media.
The German-born Ghanaian was all over the place with his dance moves as he exhibited some comical moves.
Some Ghanaian players like Asamoah Gyan, Jonathan Mensah, Kwesi Appiah and others who could not hide their joy took to social media to comment.
The initiation ceremony is held by the teams to formally welcome new players to teams.
New Ghana defender, Tariq Lamptey has disclosed that he has enjoyed the welcome given by the Black Stars players in camp.
The Brighton & Hove Albion player is in the camp of the Black Stars in France where the team is preparing for the international friendly match against Brazil.
Speaking to the media team of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Tariq Lamptey says he is proud to be part of the team.
“Everyone has been fantastic, everyone has been welcoming. It’s been so good. I’m very proud to be here and I’m really just trying to train hard to give the best I can for the team,” the former England youth international said.
Speaking about the upcoming game against Brazil, Tariq Lamptey said, “I’m looking forward to the game on Friday. In this game, we are preparing very well and we all want to be ready for Friday.”
The game between Ghana and Brazil will be played on Friday, September 23, 2022.
Spanish-born of Ghanaian descent, Nico Williams has disclosed that his mother shed tears after she was informed of his call-up to the Spanish national team.
Nico Williams was handed his debut call-up to the Spanish national while his elder brother Inaki Williams earned his first call-up to the Ghana national team after switching nationalities.
Speaking in an interview with MARCA, Nico disclosed that his mother cried as she could not hold back her joy.
The winger who had played for Spain’s youth side in the past also disclosed he never anticipated an invitation to the Spanish senior national team.
“I’m a regular in the U21s, but I didn’t expect the call from Luis Enrique. I started screaming in the living room at home and my mother hugged me and started crying,” Nico Williams told MARCA.
According to him, his elder brother, Inaki Williams encouraged him to take advantage of the opportunity given him to work hard to maintain a spot in the Spanish team.
“Even my brother (Inaki Williams) stayed a while. He didn’t expect it either. He’s very happy for me, very proud. He told me that I have to work and keep my feet on the ground,” Nico revealed.
The 20-year-old Atletico Bilbao forward could make his debut for Spain’s senior national soccer team in the UEFA Nations League games against Portugal and Switzerland.
Southampton defender, Mohammed Salisu, has been spotted with his teammates at the Black Stars camp in Paris.
Fans were eager to see images of the defender after the Ghana Football Association reported that Mohamed Salisu has joined his mates in camp on Tuesday, September 20, 2022.
The player was exempted from training with the team after he arrived in France to give him enough time to rest and recover from his trip.
Mohammed Salisu is one of the six players the Ghana Football Association confirmed in July as new players of the Black Stars.
The central defender is one of the players the GFA has been pursuing for months after Mohammed Salisu was reluctant to play for the Ghana national team.
With his arrival in camp, coach Otto Addo is spoilt for choices when it comes to the defence.
Mohammed Salisu could make his debut appearance for the Black Stars in their game against Brazil or Nicaragua on September 23rd or 27th respectively.
Black Stars captain, Andre Ayew, has entreated his teammates to believe and ensure Otto Addo‘s tactics ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
The ex-international led the four-time African champions to book a place in the Mundial.
Ghana cruised over Nigeria in a two-legged tie to return to the global showpiece with an away goal rule.
Andre, who was named the skipper for the side in 2019 believes the Black Stars’ success at the World Cup in Qatar will hinge on making the tactics of Otto Addo work.
“I think he took us to the World Cup in those two important games,” he told Accra-based Radio Gold.
“We know that it was a longer journey than just those two games but those two games were the important ones and you know we managed to make it to Qatar.
“So we have to make sure that we keep working, we follow his tactics, what he wants us to implement on the field, and to try to make it work.
“It’s not going to be easy, it has not been easy but you can see that we are trying to implement his style, and bit by bit we are getting there so we will keep preparing and get ready for the next game,” he added.
The Super Eagles held the Black Stars to a goalless draw at the Baba Yara Stadium before a 1-1 finish at the MKO Moshood Abiola Stadium.
Ghana have been housed in Group H with Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea for the global football showpiece starting in November.
The Deputy Mayor of the city of Deauville Philip Behuet has visited the Black Stars at their training ground ahead of Friday’s International friendly against France. He was in the company of the Director of Sports for Deauville Sebastien Delanoe and other key managers of the city.
The visit was to officially welcome the Black Stars to Deauville and to wish the team well in the two friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua.
“We are blessed to have all of you visiting us. I hope the visit brings us a lot of luck in our games,” President Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku said.
For his part, Mayor Philip Behuet said the city has been very hospitable to visiting teams in the past.
“You are welcome to the city of Deauville, this place is peaceful and hospitable so feel free, enjoy your stay and good luck to the team,” he said.
“It’s a big secret that I am going to tell you: you have to know that all the teams that come here have great results.
“We had Croatia coming in 2016 and we all know where they are now, we had the four finalists of the 14th FIFA Women’s World Cup train here and we had a basketball team going all the way in the World Cup and so we are sure with Ghana it will be the same.
“It’s a big honour to have you here, thank you for choosing Deauville,” Mayor Behuet added.
Deauville is a seaside resort on the Côte Fleurie of France’s Normandy region. An upscale holiday destination since the 1800s and it’s known for its grand casino, golf courses, horse races and American Film Festival.
The Black Stars have been training at Stade du Commandant Herbert in Deauville since Monday, September 19, 2022.
Ghana will play Brazil in Le Harve on Friday, September 23 before facing Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, in another friendly in Lorca- Spain.
Sweden-born Ghanaian, Isak Kwaku Hien, has revealed why he chose the European country over the Black Stars despite Ghana qualifying for the World Cup.
Hien, who was also eligible to represent Burkina Faso, insists it was an easy choice since he was born in Stockholm.
The Hellas Verona defender earned his first invite for the Nations League games against Serbia and Slovenia this week.
“It wasn’t really a very difficult choice. It was kind of fun that Ghana was going to the World Cup, but it is perhaps the worst World Cup of all World Cups,” he said as quoted by aflonbladet.se.
“I was born and raised in Sweden and have always wanted to play for Sweden, so it was nothing I was stressed about. If a few years had passed and you were getting older, you might have thought about it, but for me it wasn’t this collection or anything but that I thought I was waiting for my chance in Sweden,” he added.
Hien expressed delight after receiving a call from national team coach Janne Anderssen.
“He called and wanted to hear how I reasoned with the different national teams that I had to choose from. Then I explained that I don’t feel any stress, I want to play for Sweden and I have always wanted to,” he said.
Ghana international, Majeed Ashimeru has reacted to RSC Anderlecht’s big win against KV Kortrijk in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League.
The midfielder was in action for his team on Sunday and put on a top performance to help his team.
On the matchday, Majeed Ashimeru was on the scoresheet where he scored with a header.
Speaking in a post-match interview, the midfielder said the win is important as it gives RSC Anderlecht confidence going forward.
“It was important that we won. We wanted to show what Anderlecht stands for. Normally I don’t score with my head. It’s my second header of my career,” the Ghana midfielder said.
Majeed Ashimeru added, “It has been some time since the supporters saw us play like this. Now we can clear our heads in the ten-day break. I think this is a new start and gives us confidence.”
The midfielder after missing out on selection for the latest Ghana squad will have no part to play when the Black Stars take on Brail later this week on Friday.
The England-based duo of Daniel Amartey and Mohammed Salisu have arrived in France to join the camp of the Black Stars.
The national team of the West African country is camping in France this week to prepare for the friendly match against Brazil.
On Monday, 23 players arrived in camp and started training under head coach Otto Addo and his assistants.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced that Daniel Amartey and Mohammed Salisu have also joined the team.
“Daniel Amartey and Salisu Mohammed have teamed up with the rest of the squad in Deauville- France for the International friendly against Brazil on Friday.
“The duo touched down in Paris around 16:00Hrs and were quickly taken to the team Hotel in Deauville. Their arrival means Coach Otto Addo is spoilt for choice in Central defence as Ghana builds up to the two games against Brazil and Nicaragua. Daniel and Salisu are expected to train with their team mates on Wednesday in Deauville,” part of a GFA statement has said this evening.
Earlier in the morning, Felix Afena-Gyan and Richard Ofori also reported to camp.
The Black Stars will play Brazil in Le Harve on Friday before taking on Nicaragua in Lorca, Spain on Tuesday, September 27, 2022.
Black Stars captain, Andre Ayew, has insisted the national team will need stability and consistency to succeed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana will engage Brazil at the Stade Oceane in Le Havre on September 23 and against Nicaragua in the South-eastern Spanish city of Lorca four days later as part of the preparations for the Mundial slated for November 20.
Ahead of the games, five out of the six players who have completed their nationality switch have been named in Ghana’s squad for the game.
Andre, 32, speaking in an interview said head coach of the side, Otto Addo, assistants Mas-Ud Didi Dramani and George Boateng, as well as Chris Hughton as technical advisor, would provide the right guidance and some stability needed for the team’s progress at the World Cup and beyond.
“I remember an interview about a year ago during which I said that we needed to get some stability in what we did because it is stability and consistency which would take us to the next level, and hopefully we can get a core team and a core staff that is here for a while from whom we can learn and build something big for this football-loving nation,” the Al Sadd forward told Graphic Sports.
Spain-based Williams, Brighton wing-back Lamptey, Stephan Ambrosius of German side Karlsruhe, Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer of Hamburg SV, and Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu are all expected to make their debut for the Black Stars.
In November, the Black Stars will take on Switzerland in their final preparatory game.
The Black Stars have been housed in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay.
The Black Stars of Ghana held their second training session at the Le Stade du Commandant Herbert ahead of their friendly matches against Brazil on Friday, September 23, 2022.
Coach Otto Addo and the technical team led the players in a successful training session without injury worries but filled with smiles as the team continued to prepare for their big test.
Richard Ofori and Felix Afena Gyan who arrived late took part in the training session that was held on Tuesday.
Also present were key players like Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey, Thomas Partey, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Alexander Djiku, Baba Iddrisu, and Baba Rahman among others.
Ghana’s in-form attacking midfielder, Mohammed Kudus, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Fatawu Issahaku, and Elisha Owusu were also present during the training session.
The match forms part of preparations for the Black Stars ahead of 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Black Stars striker Inaki Williams was overjoyed after Athletic Club’s hard-fought win over Rayo Vallecano in the Spanish La Liga on Saturday.
Bilbao won the match 3-2, with the Ghana international and his younger brother Nico Williams, who has received a Spain call-up, scoring.
“Everything went well. Saturday, at nine o’clock at night, we have scored the two brothers and three points. The fans and we are happy for the break. We are on the wave and we have to continue fighting for what we want, which is to be in Europe”, summed up the oldest of the Williams to the microphones of ‘DAZN’ an almost magical night at the Cathedral.
“Marcelino left us a very solid base, a very reliable team at the back, very organized and this year we are making the most of our chances. Those of us at the top are having that bit of luck and efficiency, taking advantage of transitions very well and we are a very tough team,” Williams said.
“My parents are very proud, my family, friends, my girlfriend, everyone has joined”, he also congratulated himself for being the first match since they both scored. “Yes, my parents will be happy, it’s a pride we are very happy to be together and to be able to give nights like these to the fans”, Iñaki insisted.
Former Deputy Minister of Communication Felix Kwakye Ofosu believes the Black Stars will not be star-struck when they face Brazil’s star-studded side in a friendly on Friday, September 23rd 2022.
With days to the match, some football fans in the country have predicted that Ghana will concede a lot of goals against Brazil due to the quality their opponent possesses.
However, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has disclosed that there’s no way ‘Brazil will bury’ Black Stars in the friendly match since Ghana’s players meet Brazil’s star players regularly at the club level.
According to him, Ghana’s players like Kudus, Salisu, Tariq Lamptey and Amartey are not aliens to Brazil’s Antony, Fred, Fabinho and Allison, who also play in Europe.
“So those who say Brazil will bury us, is it Neymar, Casemiro, Vinicius and Militao that Partey and Inaki Williams have not seen or played against before, or it is Antony, Fred, Fabinho and Allison that Kudus, Salisu, Tariq Lamptey and Amartey have not seen and played against before?” Felix Kwakye Ofosu tweeted.
The Black Stars have not won a game against Brazil in history. Ghana lost to the Selecao by 3-0 at the 2006 World Cup and lost by a lone goal in two other friendly matches.
The match between Ghana and Brazil forms part of preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Anderlecht midfielder, Majeed Ashimeru has shared highlights of his impressive outings for the club in the ongoing season.
The midfielder posted the video compilations of his goals, skills, passes, and assists for the club.
The video comes after the in-form midfielder was left out of Ghana’s squad for the friendly matches against Brazil and Nicaragua.
Majeed Ashimeru has been impressive for Ashimeru this season and scored a goal for them in their win over Kortrijk in the Belgian league.
The Black Stars, meanwhile are preparing feverishly for the game against Brazil on Friday, September 3, 2022.
In the first training session held on Monday, twenty-four players turned with coach Otto Addo leading the charge.
Since then, two others have joined and Ghana now has 26 players in camp with Mohammed Salisu and Daniel Amartey the only two left.
The players will participate in their second training session on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, with coach Otto Addo, expected to imbibe his style and tactics into the players ahead of the World Cup.
In the 2022 World Cup, Ghana will play Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea in Group H.
Black Stars captain, Andre Ayew has disclosed how his teammates confidence in him has helped him weather the storm whenever the situation arises.
According to the Al Sadd attacker, the national team has gone through a lot of difficult times including a change of coaches among others.
However, the responsibility of having to work with different players has led to the team chalking a few successes including the World Cup qualification.
“I’m very lucky to be with players who give me that leadership role, who have confidence me, who give me a lot of responsibilities and I think I have senior players around me to help.
“You can’t do it alone; you always need those around and I think we are doing a good job. It wasn’t easy since I became a captain, there have been a lot of changes, a lot of coaches but globally it’s not bad.
“We need to keep pushing and we will be rewarded by God’s grace,” Andre Ayew told Radio Gold Talk Sport.
The Black Stars have been placed in Group H with Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Black Starscaptain, Andre Ayew has insisted the national team will need stability and consistency to succeed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana will engage Brazil at the Stade Oceane in Le Havre on September 23 and against Nicaragua in the South-eastern Spanish city of Lorca four days later as part of the preparations for the Mundial slated for November 20.
Ahead of the games, five out of the six players who have completed their nationality switch have been named in Ghana’s squad for the game.
Andre, 32, speaking in an interview said head coach of the side, Otto Addo, assistants Mas-Ud Didi Dramaniand George Boateng, as well as Chris Hughton as technical advisor, would provide the right guidance and some stability needed for the team’s progress at the World Cup and beyond.
“I remember an interview about a year ago during which I said that we needed to get some stability in what we did because it is stability and consistency which would take us to the next level, and hopefully we can get a core team and a core staff that is here for a while from whom we can learn and build something big for this football-loving nation,” the Al Sadd forward told Graphic Sports.
Spain-based Williams, Brighton wing-back Lamptey, Stephan Ambrosius of German side Karlsruhe, Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer of Hamburg SV, and Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu are all expected to make their debut for the Black Stars.
In November, the Black Stars will take on Switzerland in their final preparatory game.
The Black Stars have been housed in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea, and Uruguay.
The Black Stars of Ghana held their first training session ahead of their friendly matches against Brazil and Nicaragua in Paris on Monday, September 19, 2022.
Coach Otto Addo and the technical team led the players in a training session that featured some of the new players
Black Stars‘ new players Inaki Williams, Tariq Lamptey, Stephan Ambrosius, Ransford Yeboah among others took part in the training session that was held on Monday.
Also present were key players like Thomas Partey, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Alexander Djiku, Baba Iddrisu, and Baba Rahman among others.
Ghana’s in-form attacking midfielder, Mohammed Kudus, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Fatawu Issahaku, and Elisha Owusu were also present during the training session.
The Black Stars will hold another training session on Tuesday, September 20th as they prepare for their tough match against Brazil.
The match forms part of preparations for the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
A former Black Stars management committee chairman, Wilfred Kwaku Osei, affectionately called Palmer has accused the Kurt Okraku administration of engaging in illegal deals at the FA, citing the Mara sponsorship for the senior national team as an example.
According to him, the football governing body’s decision to sign an agreement with a cryptocurrency company, Mara, to sponsor the senior national team ahead of the World Cup in Qatar is a testament of their illegalities.
“Mara Metarvese sponsorship?” he quizzed in a Joy Sports conversation.
“You go and sign an illegality and you say you have signed a sponsorship; it is an illegality. SEC has pronounced, Bank of Ghana’s position on cryptocurrency is clear, why would you do that? That every sponsorship that is coming to the FA, there is a question mark on it.
“The laws of Ghana are clear on certain things, so why would engage in such?”
He added that, there are several deals signed by Mr Okraku and his team which shows that, they are not forthright with their members and that’s a sign of a bad leader.
“The same happened to the Macron deal, then it metamorphosed into Tempo. Some of us knew for a fact that we were buying our own balls, the FA was using our money to buy balls for us yet, they said Macron was giving us balls, how is it possible?
“Before you sign a deal, proper due diligence is required. The quality of a leader is dependent on his decision, and those surrounding him. You are managing people so if you have bad people following you, the kind of decision or information that you give will show.
“The quality around Kurt is low otherwise why will you go and be dealing with cryptocurrency and say that I have brought sponsorship?” he quizzed.
The Black Stars will open camp on Monday, September 19, 2022, in France ahead of the International friendly against Brazil on Friday.
The home-based back-room staff and other officials departed Accra on Saturday and arrived in Paris on Sunday to team up with the rest of the staff and players.
The team will hold its first training at 17Hrs on Monday as preparations get underway for the match against the five time World Champions in Le Harve on Friday.
Both countries will use the match to access their strengths they build up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 finals in November/December.
Brazil are paired with Switzerland, Serbia and Cameroon in Group G while Ghana face Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay in Group H.
Black Stars management committee member Alhaji Grusah has blasted the technical team, led by Otto Addo, for holding meetings via Zoom rather than in person.
Grusah has threatened not to attend any Black Stars-related meetings if they continue to use the video app.
Otto Addo and his staff should travel to Ghana for their meetings, according to the controversial football administrator.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo is based in Germany, where is assistant coach of Borussia Dortmund. Assistant coach George Boateng until recently was a youth team coach at Aston Vila while Didi Dramani, another assistant coach, works with Danish side Nordsjaelland.
“We have a big chance if we remain truthful and put the right measures in place,” he said as reported by Ghanaweb.
“I’ve told them not to call into any online meeting. Zoom meet is archaic. The coaches should come down with their selections for us to have a discussion.
“I’ve warned them not to call me into any zoom meeting. How can we be truthful if we are not seeing each other? I’m confident that with the right things we’ll qualify,” he added.
Black Stars will return to action this month with games against Brazil and Nicaragua as part of preparations for World Cup in Qatar, where they will play Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay in group stage.
German-born duo Stephan Ambrosious and Ransford Yeboah Konigsdorffer have received their first invite to the Black Stars ahead of the September friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua.
The two players were among the five players named by the Ghana FA to have switched nationality and ready to play for the Black Stars in July.
Coach Otto Addo has named Ambrosious and Konigsdorffer in his 29-man squad and they will be available to make their Ghana debut against Brazil and Nicaragua if selected.
Stephan Ambrosius is currently on loan to Karlsruher SC from Hamburg and has made three appearances in the Bundesliga II.
Ransford Konigsdorffer has two goals in five appearances for Hamburg this season.
Ghana will play Brazil on Friday, September 23, at Stade Oceane in Le Harve- France before taking on Nicaragua at Estadio Francisco Artes Carrasco in Lorca, Spain on Tuesday, September 27, 2022.
