2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Black Stars are determined to make Ghanaians proud against Chad and Madagascar - Stephen Appiah

Vice Chairman of the Black Stars, Stephen Appiah, has assured Ghanaians that the team is determined to restore national pride as they prepare for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Ghana’s senior national team has faced intense criticism following a disappointing campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they failed to secure a single win and finished at the bottom of their group.

With just two victories recorded in 2024, the Black Stars will be looking for a fresh start as they take on Chad and Madagascar in their first matches of 2025.

Speaking ahead of the crucial qualifiers, Appiah—who played a pivotal role in Ghana’s historic 2006 and 2010 World Cup qualifications—expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and commitment.

"I was proud to see our president [John Mahama] come visit the players yesterday and he gave some words of encouragement to the players and told them it is not about NDC or NPP but the players should play their heart out," he told Asempa FM.

"From everything that President Mahama told the players, I believe they are determined and ready to make Ghanaians proud against Chad and Madagascar."

Appiah also urged fans to turn out in large numbers and support the team, emphasizing the importance of unity in pushing the Black Stars forward.

"We need the fans to show up in their numbers to support the team. We should come together and support the team and I believe that the team will surely win."

The Black Stars will face Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, with kickoff set for 19:00 GMT. They will then travel to Morocco to take on Madagascar at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars will wrap up their training sessions today at the Accra Sports Stadium.