Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, under the guidance of head coach Otto Addo, is gearing up for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic (CAR) and Comoros. The team faces significant challenges and opportunities, with Addo emphasizing discipline, strategic preparation, and team depth.

A notable setback for the Black Stars is the absence of key attacking talent, Iñaki Williams of Athletic Bilbao, who has been ruled out due to injury. Coach Addo acknowledged this as a loss but highlighted the team's depth. “It’s always a loss when we have to replace players,” Addo stated, but expressed confidence in replacements like Brandon Thomas, who has been in excellent form with numerous assists and goals. Long-term injuries have also sidelined centre-back Mumin and winger Ernest Nuamah, though Addo remains optimistic about their eventual return, viewing the situation as fostering healthy competition for squad places. The coach reiterated the team's strength in adaptability, stating, “We can replace an experienced top player like Iñaki with a good player in form like Brandon Thomas.”

Conversely, the squad has been bolstered by the return of defenders Alidu Seidu and winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, both rejoining after injury lay-offs. Addo expressed satisfaction with their comeback, noting their strong fitness and form in their respective clubs. Their inclusion is part of a broader strategy to maintain a core group of 30-35 players who can be rotated based on form and fitness, ensuring depth and energy throughout the campaign.

Ahead of their penultimate qualifier against the Central African Republic, Addo has cautioned his players against complacency. CAR, now under new coach Rigobert Song, is expected to present a different tactical approach compared to their last encounter. Addo revealed that his technical team has meticulously prepared for multiple tactical scenarios, studying opponent clips and training based on CAR's weaknesses and strengths. He stressed the importance of player adaptation on the pitch, reminding them that even teams without big names can be dangerous if focus is lost.

Lessons learned from previous games, particularly a narrow win over Chad, underscore the necessity of maintaining intensity until the final whistle. “We’ve learned to take things serious to the last minute. We have to stay sharp in every action,” Addo remarked, warning that thinking the game is already won is a