Black Stars deputy captain, Thomas Partey has returned in the Black Stars squad after some months out and is set to captain the team against Mali and Central African Republic, in the absence of main skipper Andre Ayew
Ghana coach Otto Addo has announced a 26-man squad list for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and Central African Republic in June.
The experienced playmaker has been left out of the Black Stars squad list for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Asante Kotoko legend Malik Jabir has urged the inclusion of home-based players, particularly Hearts of Oak defender Michael Ampadu, in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana will face Mali on June 6 in Bamako and then host the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium on June 10. These matches are crucial as Ghana aims to secure maximum points following a shaky start to the qualifiers last year.
The Black Stars managed a 1-0 victory over Madagascar but then suffered a narrow defeat to Comoros, leaving them fourth in Group I.
In an interview with Kessben FM, Malik Jabir emphasized the importance of local talent, especially Michael Ampadu, in strengthening the national team. “Hearts of Oak’s right-back Michael Ampadu is a good defender. He is physically strong, and for me, these are the players you promote as a coach. Such a player needs to be given the chance to try. We shouldn’t think about the clubs they belong to. Just look at how tough the player is and give those players the chance,” Jabir stated.
Despite Hearts of Oak's struggles this season, Ampadu has stood out in the Ghanaian top-flight league with his physical prowess and defensive skills.
Ghana coach Otto Addo is set to announce his squad on Wednesday for the important matches in June. Including players like Ampadu could inject fresh energy and resilience into the team, which is crucial for improving their position in the qualifiers.
The upcoming games are critical for the Black Stars' path to the 2026 World Cup, and selecting the right players will be essential. Malik Jabir's call to include local talent reflects a belief in the potential of home-grown players to make a significant impact internationally.
Incorporating more home-based players could also strengthen the bond between the national team and the domestic league, promoting greater development and opportunities for local athletes.
As the squad announcement approaches, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Otto Addo includes players like Michael Ampadu. Their performances could be key to securing the necessary victories in the upcoming qualifiers.
Anticipation is high, and the focus will be on the Black Stars as they prepare for these vital matches. Successfully integrating both local and international talent will be crucial in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Veteran football coach Malik Jabir has criticized Laryea Kingston following his resignation as head coach of the Black Starlets. Kingston stepped down on Saturday after Ghana's 2-1 defeat in the semifinals of the WAFU B Championship, which resulted in the team missing out on qualifying for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
In an interview with Kessben FM, Jabir expressed his disappointment with Kingston's decision. “It was a childish decision he took. Was he thinking of beating all countries on the continent? No. This means he is a young coach and I think he will learn going forward. Once he’s resigned, if he gets another opportunity he will learn from it,” Jabir stated.
Kingston revealed that he had made the decision to resign while the team was in Russia for the U-16 tournament. His announcement was marked by an emotional tone, highlighting his internal struggle with the decision.
Appointed in April, Kingston initially served as the assistant coach before taking the head coach position. Over his 18-month tenure, he led the team to play some of the best football seen from Ghana’s youth team, scoring an impressive 54 goals in 18 games.
Despite the successes, the recent defeat and subsequent failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations were significant blows. These setbacks likely influenced Kingston’s decision to quit.
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo will meet the press at the headquarters of the Ghana Football Association at 11:00am on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Hasaacas Ladies and Ampem Darkoa Ladies will go head to head against each other in the final of the 2023/24 Ghana Women's Premier League
Executive Council member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Nana Oduro Sarfo, has confirmed that Laryea Kingston has not been dismissed as the head coach of the Black Starlets.
Nana Oduro Sarfo, an Executive Council member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has expressed his shock over the unexpected resignation of Laryea Kingston.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member, Nana Oduro Sarfo, has disclosed that Laryea Kingston has not been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Black Starlets.
The highly-anticipated Kirsten Otchere (K9) U-18 Tournament was finally held last Saturday at the Kumasi Technical University campus in Adako-Jachie and it was Buokrom-based Real Kids FC who emerged winners in the end after beating hosts Field Boys 5-3 on penalties.
The Black Stars will open camp in Accra on Thursday, May 30, 2024 ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and Central African Republic.
