The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has rallied the Black Stars to rise above recent setbacks as they prepare for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8, 2025.
Adams visited the team’s camp on Friday in what he described as a morale-boosting engagement.
His presence, he explained, was not only to encourage the players but also to listen, understand, and assure them of the government’s unwavering support.
“I know what you’re capable of. There’s no better team than you. You have the talent, the passion, and the opportunity to turn this around,” the Minister told the squad, acknowledging the disappointment of the recent draw against Chad.
Lessons from Chad: focus on redemption
The Black Stars dropped valuable points against Chad in their previous qualifier, a result that sparked concern among fans.
But both the technical team and players insisted they had taken lessons from that outing.
Head coach Otto Addo reassured the Minister that the focus remains firmly on qualification.
He also noted that the return to a natural grass pitch at the Accra Sports Stadium could give the team an edge against their Malian counterparts.
“We are focused. Qualification is the goal, and we believe we will respond strongly against Mali,” Addo declared.
Players promise a response on the pitch
The players themselves did not shy away from admitting past mistakes but pledged to turn things around in front of the home crowd.
A senior player, speaking on behalf of the squad, said: “We know what went wrong, and we are determined to correct it. The win is coming.”
The atmosphere in camp, according to insiders, has been upbeat since the Minister’s visit, with players determined to use the Mali match as a statement of intent for the rest of the qualifying campaign.
Govt’s commitment to national teams
The Ministry of Sports emphasised that Adams’ visit was part of a broader policy of standing by national teams, not only during victories but also in difficult moments.
The Ministry further assured that the Black Stars would continue to receive the resources and support needed for their qualification campaign.
“The visit reflects our commitment to be present with the team, not just in resourcing them, but also in spirit and solidarity when challenges arise,” a Ministry statement noted.
Pivotal fixture in qualification race
Monday’s fixture against Mali is widely regarded as pivotal in Ghana’s World Cup qualifying journey.
With group standings tight, three points at home could restore confidence and put the Black Stars back on track.
The Accra Sports Stadium is expected to be packed with thousands of passionate fans, hopeful that the national team will redeem themselves and edge closer to the dream of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
