Black Stars can still improve before World Cup – Hans Adu Sarpei

Former Black Stars defender Hans Adu Sarpei has expressed optimism that Ghana can sharpen its performance ahead of the World Cup, despite a difficult run of results in recent international friendlies.

As part of their preparations, the Black Stars faced Austria and Germany, but suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Austria before narrowly losing 2-1 to Germany. The back-to-back losses have raised concerns, although Sarpei believes there were signs of progress in the second outing.

He pointed to Ghana’s improved display against Germany, while lamenting the late goal that denied them a draw.

“Germany are a very good team, so losing 2–1 is not necessarily a bad result. However, when you are level going into the final minute, you need to fight to at least secure that one point," he told Joy Sports.

"After the 5–1 defeat to Austria, the response we showed against Germany was encouraging. We played much better, but there is still room for improvement," Sarpei added.

The two matches proved costly for head coach Otto Addo, who was relieved of his duties following the defeats, leaving Ghana without a head coach just 70 days before the start of the tournament.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has since moved to reassure fans, with President Kurt Okraku indicating that a new head coach is expected to be appointed within the next two weeks.