“Qualification for 2026 World Cup is Vital” – Sports Minister
In a passionate plea for support, Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, expressed the critical importance of the Black Stars qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During a recent media engagement following a visit to the team’s first training session, Adams likened the need for World Cup qualification to “the air that we breathe,” underscoring the urgency and significance of the upcoming matches.
The Black Stars are gearing up for two crucial qualifiers against Chad on March 21 and Madagascar on March 24, aiming to redeem themselves after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team’s preparations kicked off with their first training session at the Accra Sports Stadium, where nine out of the 26 invited players participated.
Adams assessed the playing surface at the Accra Stadium, describing it as “impressive” and ready to host the game against Chad. He emphasized that qualifying for the World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is an absolute necessity for Ghanaian football.
“For the qualification, I need it just like any other person. Qualification is like the air that we are breathing, that’s how bad I need it,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to ensuring everything is in order for the team’s upcoming challenges.
The training session featured key players, including Kamaldeen Sulemana, Razak Simpson, Mohammed Salisu, Gideon Mensah, Kamaradini Mamudu, and Antoine Semenyo, alongside all three goalkeepers.