‘Heckle and fight for every ball’ – Asamoah Gyan to Black Stars players ahead of Madagascar match

Legendary Ghanaian footballer Asamoah Gyan has advised the Black Stars players to be determined and committed in their game against Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

He admitted that in recent matches, he has seen some players not fully committing to 50/50 balls, which has cost the team losses against teams they were expected to beat.

The former Sunderland forward urged the Black Stars players to fight for every ball to prevent Madagascar from scoring.

Speaking to the Black Stars players ahead of the crucial game against Madagascar, Gyan challenged the squad to play with full commitment, just as they do for their clubs.

“It doesn’t matter where you play; sometimes your club will tell you that you have to be careful and do the right things. When you’re going to the World Cup, it’s the ultimate goal. We’ve got about three games to go, guys. I’m looking at the psychological aspect. I want Ghanaians to see you guys heckling and fighting for every ball, and the results will follow.

“You have great players, talent, and everything, but that commitment is missing. Just a small push, and we’ll get there. Let’s fight. Last time, I saw players backing off from 50/50 balls. Let’s forget about our clubs for now. This is about the World Cup. When you play for your national team, you represent your country. So, let’s forget about what happens at the club level,” he said.

The Black Stars will face Madagascar at the 12,000-capacity Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Al Hoceima, a neutral ground in Morocco on March 24, 2025.

Following the team’s 5-0 thrashing of Chad, they lead Group I with 12 points, followed by Madagascar with ten points.

Watch the Gyan’s remarks in the video below:

Meanwhile, watch as Otto Addo explains decision to start Benjamin Asare in Black Stars‘ win over Chad

SB/EK