Ghanaian football legends Asamoah Gyan and Stephen Appiah have been urging the Black Stars players to remain focused and determined ahead of their match against Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Gyan, who has been playing a crucial role in boosting the morale of the squad, entreated them to show commitment and sacrifice themselves for the national team.
He urged the players to fight for every ball and not underestimate their opponents.
“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,” Gyan said.
Afterwards, Stephen Appiah, a member of the Black Stars Management Committee, warned the players against complacency, lest Madagascar will stun them with a victory.
He indicated that Madagascar are a better side than Chad, and therefore, the players should be prepared for a tougher test.
“The game you played against Chad is going to be different from the game you are going to play against Madagascar. They have a different style of play, and they will come with a different approach.
“So, you should tune your minds towards the game. We are talking about the World Cup. Most of you were in Qatar. After the World Cup, you returned to your clubs, and you were different,” he added.
The Black Stars will face Madagascar at the 12,000-capacity Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Al Hoceima 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 10 points.
Watch Gyan and Appiah’s comments below:
‘It will be different from the Chad game’
Stephen Appiah urges the Black Stars to reset their minds ahead of tonight’s game against Madagascar.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/ixjDt1Hv2L
— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) March 24, 2025
‘I want Ghanaians to see you guys heckling and fighting for every ball’
Asamoah Gyan urges Black Stars to be mentally tough against Madagascar.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/CystgMjDho
— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) March 24, 2025
Meanwhile, watch as Otto Addo explains decision to start Benjamin Asare in Black Stars‘ win over Chad
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