Former Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah believes the Black Stars have a strong chance of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, provided the ongoing concerns about the team’s captaincy are properly addressed.
Reports from Ghanasoccernet confirm that head coach Otto Addo has appointed Jordan Ayew as the new captain, replacing his elder brother, Andre Ayew, who has been absent from the squad since March 2024.
During Ghana’s last match against Sudan, Mohammed Kudus wore the captain’s armband in Thomas Partey’s absence. However, Partey has declined a permanent leadership role, leading to Alexander Djiku being named Jordan Ayew’s deputy.
Speaking on Luv FM, Appiah, who currently manages Sudan, highlighted the importance of squad unity as Ghana prepares for two critical qualifiers this month.
“Well, for me, the little advice I can give is I’m really happy that our position at the moment is not that bad,” Appiah stated. “Secondly, I am hoping that what I have heard is true, that they’re trying to sort out the captaincy issue. If there are other issues, I hope they resolve them, but you know I’m not with the team, so it’s not everything that I know.”
He further stressed that team cohesion is crucial for success.
“If they’re able to sort the captaincy issue, then it’s okay, because the players we have are quality, and then we make sure there’s no division in the team. Without unity, we cannot achieve anything, so I hope and pray that Ghana will qualify for the World Cup.”
The Black Stars will continue their qualification campaign against Chad on March 17 at the Accra Sports Stadium before traveling to Morocco to face Madagascar in another decisive fixture.
Currently, Ghana sits level with Comoros at the top of Group I, having secured nine points from four matches.
