Otto Addo Sets Sights on Beating Chad as Ghana Prepares for Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Ghana national team head coach Otto Addo has expressed strong determination as the Black Stars prepare to resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. With two important fixtures lined up for September, the coach is placing special emphasis on Ghana’s upcoming clash against Chad, a game he believes could set the tone for the rest of the qualifiers.

After securing back-to-back wins earlier this year on Matchdays 6 and 7, Ghana finds itself in a competitive position in the race for a spot at the 2026 World Cup. However, the road ahead remains challenging, and Addo is fully aware of the task that lies ahead.

In a recent interview with the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) media team, Addo highlighted the meticulous planning already underway as the team looks to maintain its momentum. The former Borussia Dortmund talent coach noted that preparations are ongoing behind the scenes and will intensify as the new European football season kicks off.

“As the season begins, I’ll be traveling to monitor our players,” Addo explained. “It’s important to assess their form and fitness levels in their respective clubs. Once that’s done, I will sit down with my coaching staff to finalize the squad for the next round of qualifiers.”

Addo made it clear that the match against Chad is being treated as a must-win. Ghana will travel away to face Chad before returning home to take on Mali in the second game of the September international window. The coach is optimistic that a positive result in the first game will be crucial for the team’s confidence and qualification hopes.

“We want to start this next phase of qualifiers with a win,” Addo emphasized. “Every point counts at this stage, and winning away from home would put us in a very strong position moving forward. That’s why our preparations will be thorough and focused.”

Another key area of concern is player availability, particularly given the number of injuries affecting the national pool. Addo acknowledged the challenges that come with injuries but reassured fans that the technical team is maintaining close contact with affected players.

“There are quite a few players recovering from injuries,” he said. “We are monitoring their progress and staying in touch with them regularly. Our goal is to have as many players as possible available and match-fit when we regroup in September.”

Addo also stressed the importance of team cohesion and mental readiness. While individual talent is important, he believes that collective spirit and tactical discipline will make the difference in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested qualifying group.

“We have quality players, but more importantly, we need a team that plays together, supports each other, and sticks to the game plan,” Addo noted. “These games won’t be easy, and we must be prepared for tough battles, both home and away.”

The September qualifiers will be followed by two more decisive matches in October when Ghana takes on Comoros and the Central African Republic. These fixtures will complete the group stage of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

With four matches remaining and qualification still very much within reach, Addo is calling for unity among fans, players, and the technical team. He believes that with the right preparation, focus, and support, Ghana can make a strong push toward returning to the world’s biggest football stage.

“Our ambition is to qualify for the World Cup,” Addo stated. “We know what it means to the country, and we’re doing everything possible to achieve that goal.”