Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is confident in Ghana’s chances ahead of their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR) on Wednesday. Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Meknes, Morocco, Addo emphasized the importance of focus, discipline, and learning from past mistakes.
“We have to win this game”
Addo was clear about the team’s objective: nothing short of victory. Reflecting on the team’s previous outing against Chad, where Ghana lost concentration in the final minutes, he urged the players to remain alert until the final whistle.
“I just hope we learn from the experience in Chad. We have to take this match seriously until the last minute. We must stay defensively sharp and take our offensive chances. I have a strong feeling we can keep a clean sheet and score one or two goals,” he said.
Key Players Return
Addo welcomed the return of Alidu Seidu and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, both of whom are back in the squad after recovering from injuries.
“I’m very happy for them. You don’t take it for granted when players come back strong from injury. They’ve been doing well at club level and it’s great to have them back,” he said.
Team Over Self
The coach stressed that his focus is solely on team success, not personal milestones.
“I don’t dwell on the past. It’s about tomorrow — we have to win this game. It’s not about me; it’s about the team,” Addo noted.
He added that Ghana’s current group position gives them control over their World Cup destiny.
“We’re in a good position. If we win this game, our chances of qualifying increase significantly,” he said.
Iñaki Williams Out, Thomas Called Up
Addo confirmed that striker Iñaki Williams has been ruled out due to injury but expressed confidence in the depth of the squad.
“It’s always a loss to miss a player like Iñaki, but we’re lucky to have others stepping up. Brandon Thomas has been in excellent form with goals and assists — he deserves this opportunity.”
Injuries to other key players like Abdul Mumin and Ernest Nuamah have complicated squad selection, but Addo sees the competition for spots as a positive challenge.
“It makes my job harder, but that’s what we want — healthy competition is good for the team,” he said.
Neutral Ground No Guarantee
While the match will be played on neutral ground in Morocco, Addo cautioned against assuming it gives Ghana an advantage.
“We’ve played on neutral grounds and had mixed results. But I’m glad it’s an evening match — that suits our players better,” he added.
On Pressure: “It’s Normal”
With just two games left in the qualifiers, Addo acknowledged the pressure — but said it comes with the territory.
“Pressure at this stage is normal. We’re leading the group with two matches to go. The players are experienced and know what’s at stake. We just want to meet expectations,” he concluded.
Ghana faces the Central African Republic with high stakes — a win could bring the Black Stars one step closer to securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
