Ghana's quest for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues as they face Madagascar in a crucial qualifying match. Coach Otto Addo has stressed the importance of maintaining focus and avoiding complacency, despite a recent dominant victory over Chad. The Black Stars currently lead Group I, but Addo is wary of the threat posed by Madagascar, who sit just two points behind them.

"This is a six-pointer," Addo stated, emphasizing the significance of the match. He acknowledged Madagascar's strength, noting their recent 4-1 victory over the Central African Republic. Addo is determined to keep Ghana in the top spot, knowing that a win would significantly boost their World Cup qualification hopes.

The match against Madagascar is expected to be a stern test for the Black Stars. Madagascar's coach, Corentin Martins, has been preparing his side feverishly, deploying their best tactics and strategies. He has also strengthened his squad with new call-ups and experienced players. Martins believes that the match against Ghana will not determine their fate in the 2026 World Cup qualification, as there are more matches ahead. "We're going to play our way. We're going to try to annoy them [Black Stars] as much as possible," he said.

Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has called on the team to give their maximum effort. "These kinds of games are a psychological thing," Gyan stated, urging the players to take responsibility and deliver a positive result.

One of the talking points from the Chad match was Otto Addo's decision to start goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, handing him his senior international debut. Addo defended his selection, stating that Asare had performed well in training and deserved the opportunity. "For me, it doesn't matter where a player plays; it's all about performance," Addo explained.

Beyond the World Cup qualifiers, Ghana and Morocco have reached an agreement to initiate moves toward waiving visa requirements for all categories of travelers between the two countries, a move aimed at fostering closer diplomatic and economic ties. Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, stated that the agreement would be presented to both nations’ parliaments for ratification in the coming weeks. Mr Ablakwa also addressed concerns over recent social media reports alleging violence against Africans in Morocco, clarifying that the widely circulated video in question was an old recording of a tragic border incident that occurred on 24th June 2022.

As the Black Stars prepare to face Madagascar, Otto Addo has urged his players to stay grounded and take things step by step. "Nobody should take it easy, nobody should start thinking already about the World Cup because we need to take it step by step."