Otto Addo rallies Black Stars ahead of Madagascar clash: "This is like a small final"
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has issued a rallying call to his players ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar, stressing the need for total commitment.
Ghana, currently leading Group I, are looking to extend their advantage after a dominant 5-0 win over Chad. However, Addo remains cautious, insisting that past results mean nothing if the team fails to maintain focus.
“We don’t need 98 per cent, we don’t need 99 per cent, we need 100 per cent,” he said. “This is like a small final, and if we win this game, then we are really going to qualify, but it’s going to be very, very tough.”
The match, set to be played at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium in Morocco, may seem favourable for Ghana due to the neutral venue, but Addo warned against complacency.
“Psychologically, sometimes if you think it’s not going to be a hot atmosphere, it’s kind of a trap and you give maybe one or two per cent less. We can't just go out and think we will win; we have to work hard for this. Every centimetre is important, every duel is important, and we have to go in every duel 100 per cent if we want to win this match.”
Teamwork, leadership, and tactical discipline key
The coach emphasised that individual brilliance must be complemented by teamwork, urging his players to remain adaptable and support each other on the field.
“We have to continue to work for each other. Even if somebody makes a mistake, the other one has to be there to help him out,” he explained. “Football is a sport of mistakes, and who does more will lose. The most important thing is how we react as a team.”
He also highlighted the role of leadership on the pitch, adding: “Surely the leaders take a big role in that. If somebody is not in his position, they demand and correct the position.”
While Ghana have been prolific in front of goal, scoring 11 times in their last three matches, Addo is mindful of defensive lapses and wants his team to maintain concentration.
Madagascar not to be underestimated
Madagascar come into the match on the back of an impressive 4-1 win over the Central African Republic, and Addo acknowledged that they will be a tough opponent.
“We observed the Madagascar team, and they have done really, really well, especially in the last game, so they are in good form and it’s going to be a tough game.”
Despite a few minor injury concerns, the coach assured that the squad is ready. “In all, we are all good to go.”
Call for national support
As the Black Stars prepare for the crucial tie, Addo urged Ghanaians to keep backing the team.
“Thank you, Accra, for this unbelievable atmosphere. Thank you to the President of the country, the Sports Minister, GFA President, and everybody who worked so hard. Keep on supporting, keep on helping us, and we can do this, but together.”
The match kicks off at 7:00 PM local time, with Ghana aiming to take another decisive step towards securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
