Ghana will kickstart their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers campaign against Madagascar at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday, November 17, 2023.
Having qualified to the last edition which was staged in Qatar late last year, the focus definitely is geared towards nothing but securing another spot in USA.
Both countries were in the same group in the AFCON qualifiers and Ghana pummeled Madagascar 3-0 in the first leg in Cape Coast to set off an explosive start before playing out a goalless draw in the second leg last June.
The Black Stars climaxed the 2023 AFCON qualifiers two months ago with a precious 2-1 win over Central African Republic to finish as winners of Group E with 12 points and also recorded a stunning unbeaten run.
However, the four-time African champions last regroup wasn't the best having lost against North American giants Mexico and USA- all in international friendlies and conceded six without scoring none in the two matches.
On the opposition end, Madagascar failed to book a place in Cote D'Ivoire early next year for the AFCON after finishing at the foot of Group E with only three points.
However, in the last international window, the Barea redeemed themselves from a 2-1 loss at Mauritania to beat the Squirrels of Benin 2-1 in Antananarivo.
TEAM NEWS
The Black Stars have held three training sessions so far heading into the game and coach Chris Hughton has no any major injuries or suspension worries at his disposal.
Key figures like Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu, Joseph Aidoo are all out of the game due to injuries.
However, returnees like skipper Andre Ayew, Osman Bukari, Daniel Amartey, Majeed Ashimeru and goalkeeper Jojo Wollacott are all faring well so far and will all be ready and available for selection.
On the opposition end, coach Nicholas Dupuis have been in the country since Tuesday and have been training at the Paa Joe Park- hoping for quick acclimatization before the game.
PROBABLE XI
Lawrence Ati-Zigi (GK), Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Daniel Amartey, Nicholas Opoku, Salis Abdul Samed, Iddrisu Baba, Kudus Mohammed, Jordan Ayew, Ernest Nuamah and Inaki Williams
CHANNELS: GTV, Supersport, Canal Plus , BeIn Sports, StarTimes
KICKOFF: 16:00GMT (4:00pm)
