In November 2023, Ghana Black Stars kicked off their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Madagascar. However, their unexpected loss to Comoros has increased the pressure on them as they prepare to face Mali in Bamako.
The Black Stars currently hold the fourth spot in World Cup 2026 qualifying Group I, which includes Mali, Chad, and the Central African Republic.
On Thursday, Otto Addo’s team will face Mali in what is expected to be a challenging match. Four days later – they’ll host the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Key players to watch include Tariq Lamptey in defence, Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey in midfield and Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth in the attack.
Kudus is expected to play a crucial role. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder has provided six assists and scored eight goals for West Ham in the league this season.
The team will introduce two new players: Thomas-Asante from West Brom and Sulemana from Cagliari. Both players have yet to make an appearance for the national team.
Comoros led Group I with six points, followed by Mali with four, Madagascar and Ghana with three each, and Central African Republic and Chad at the bottom with two points after playing two matches.
Ghana’s Black Stars Scheduled matches
- Mali v Ghana (Group I) | 1900 | Bamako, Mali
- Ghana v Central African Republic (Group I) | 1900 | Kumasi, Ghana
