The Black Stars of Ghana have officially opened their training camp in Accra as preparations intensify for their vital 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Mali.
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Camp Kicks Off with Key Players Already in Accra
The national squad began assembling on Monday, with 14 players reported in camp. Notable early arrivals include:
- Captain Jordan Ayew
- Forward Antoine Semenyo
- Defender Tariq Lamptey
- Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi
- Midfielders Elisha Owusu and Mohammed Salisu
- Rising stars Christopher Bonsu Baah and Ibrahim Osman
These early arrivals will lead training sessions at the Accra Sports Stadium, where the team’s preparations will intensify ahead of the qualifiers.
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Full Squad and Training Schedule
Head coach Otto Addo has unveiled a 24-man squad for the crucial fixtures. While foundational players report early, several key figures—including talisman Thomas Partey—are expected to arrive later and bolster the squad.
Training opens publicly on Monday before transitioning into a closed-door session on Tuesday. From there, the team will fly out to N’Djamena, Chad, to face their first qualifier.
The Stakes: Road to the 2026 World Cup
The Black Stars face two pivotal fixtures:
- Away vs. Chad at Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno – September 4, 2025
- Home vs. Mali at Accra Sports Stadium – September 8, 2025
These matches represent Matchdays 7 and 8 of the CAF qualifying campaign. Ghana currently sits top Group I with 15 points from six games, leading rivals Comoros and Madagascar.
A strong showing in these matches could practically seal qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Team Morale and Tactical Direction
Coach Otto Addo has expressed guarded optimism, emphasizing that despite Ghana’s strong position, complacency isn’t an option. He urged players to remain focused and take the campaign step by step, recognizing the enormous stakes both in Chad’s cauldron and in front of the home fans.
The blend of experienced leaders like Jordan Ayew with emerging talents such as Bonsu Baah reflects a strategic mix intended to balance energy, skill, and composure in high-pressure matches.
Media and Fans Engage Ahead of Departure
Monday’s training session at Accra Sports Stadium was open to the media and fans—an opportunity for supporters to rally behind the team. Further coverage is expected through social and traditional media, keeping the nation united in purpose.
With excitement building, supporters hope the Black Stars can use the home advantage and fan backing to edge closer to World Cup qualification.
- A fifth World Cup appearance would represent a major milestone for Ghana.
- Victories over Chad and Mali would reaffirm the team’s status as one of Africa’s elite.
- Qualifying would mark a critical comeback after missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The urgency and determination in camp reflect how much these upcoming matches mean to both the Ghana Football Association and the nation.
As the Black Stars continue training in Accra, Ghana anxiously awaits their departure—toward qualification for a global stage. With tactical acumen, national support, and a rich mix of leadership and youthful energy, Ghana’s national team has positioned itself strongly in the race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
