Ghana’s Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has sounded the whistle for the Black Stars to kick-start their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a win against Chad on Friday, March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Accra Sports Stadium showdown marks Ghana’s first match of the year, with the team seeking to bounce back from a dismal run of form in 2024.
In 2024, the Black Stars experienced a downward spiral and hit a rough patch, failing to win their last six matches and missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco – a first in two decades.
During his speech on Wednesday at the floor of parliament, the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central emphasized the need for a turnaround, saying, “We need nothing but a win against Chad. It’s disappointing that the Black Stars couldn’t qualify for the 2025 AFCON.”
Iddrisu also highlighted the importance of revamping the team’s strategy, stating, “That is not the Black Stars of Ghana. There is something fundamentally wrong.”
To get back on track, Haruna advised the Sports Minister Kofi Adams to prioritize grassroots development and secure corporate sponsorships.
The Minister of Parliament for Tamale South stressed the need to nurture young talent through school sports and competitions.
“We need to activate school sports and school competitions because that’s where the talents are. We need partnerships and must get the private sectors on board,” he urged.
Ghana currently sits in third position in their World Cup qualifying group leveled on points with second place Comoros, with both teams on nine points.
After facing Chad, the Black Stars will take on Madagascar in Morocco on March 24.
