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Black Stars head coach Otto Addo says he is optimistic about Ghana’s chances of securing victory against the Central African Republic (CAR) in their penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Wednesday.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Meknes, Morocco, Addo urged his players to remain focused and learn from their previous game against Chad, stressing the importance of maintaining concentration until the final whistle.
“I just hope that we learn out of the experience in Chad, and we have to take it serious to the last minute,” he said.
“We have to fight defensively, especially to the last minute. Surely, I know we have our offensive strength and we will create chances and we have to score. I have a very, very good feeling that we can go to zero in this game and we’ll be able to score one or two goals.”
The Ghana coach welcomed the return of Alidu Seidu and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, both of whom missed earlier matches due to injury. “I’m very happy for them. It’s not something you can take for granted to come back as strong as they are. We’ve been observing them and talking throughout their recovery. They’re doing well in their league, and I’m very, very happy for them to be back,” he said.
Addo, said his focus was not on personal achievement but on team success. “I don’t live too much in the past. We have to think about tomorrow; we have to win this game and then we’ll see. Surely, I’m not thinking too much about myself, it’s about the team,” he stated.
The coach added that Ghana’s position in the group gives them control over their own destiny. “We are in a comfortable position that we can look on ourselves, and we want to win this game. I think if we win this game, we have a high probability to qualify for the World Cup,” he said.
Addo also commented on the absence of striker Iñaki Williams, who withdrew due to injury. “It’s always a loss if we have to replace players, but in a lucky situation, we have a lot of good players. Brandon Thomas has been in good form, with a lot of assists and goals, so he deserves to be here,” he explained.
He noted that injuries to key players such as Abdul Mumin and Ernest Nuamah have made squad selection more challenging but healthy competition among players was vital. “Surely, it will make my work difficult to decide who comes to the squad or not, but this is what we want. The current situation is pushing each player,” Addo said.
The coach also downplayed the potential advantage of playing on neutral ground in Morocco. “We had matches where we played on a neutral ground and didn’t perform well, and others where we did. I’m happy that we are playing in the evening; it’s easier for our players to adapt,” he said.
On the question of pressure, Addo insisted it was part of the job. “The so-called pressure that we have right now is normal. Especially when we are first now and just two matches to go. We just want to fulfil our expectations. I think the players are experienced enough,” he said.
Addo acknowledged the importance of consistency and experience in his squad, citing senior players like Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Mohammed Kudus, Mohammed Salisu, and Alexander Djiku. “Consistency is the key for success. If you make too many changes, it’s difficult for the players to connect,” he noted.
He also praised Kudus’ recent form with Tottenham Hotspur, saying, “Surely, if somebody scores, I’m happy for everybody who scores. He did well. He created a lot of chances for Tottenham and had some assists as well.”
Addo concluded by thanking Ghanaians for their continuous support and pledged that the team would give their best. “Once again, I want to thank the Ghanaian people for their strong support. I hope we will give them something back tomorrow,” he said.
Ghana sit at the top of their qualifying group and a win against the Central African Republic at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes will put them within touching distance of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
