Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has declared that the Black Stars’ qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is an absolute necessity.
The senior national team is set to return to international competition this week, marking their first matches since failing to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
As part of their World Cup qualifying campaign, Ghana will face Chad and Madagascar in crucial Matchday 5 and 6 fixtures.
Speaking to the media after a visit to the players at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, Minister Adams emphasized the importance of qualification, likening it to the air people breathe.
“Qualification is like the air that we breathe. That’s how bad I need it. So why will you see me here? In the last few days, if you had come here, I have been here regularly,” he said.
“Even yesterday, Sunday, I was here. So it should tell you that I want everything in order for this game. I need it just as Ghanaians need it. I know the players also need it. The coach has also told me he wants it,” he added.
The Black Stars commenced their training on Monday with nine players reporting for the initial session at the Accra Sports Stadium. The rest of the squad is expected to join camp today as preparations intensify.
Ghana will host Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, with kick-off set for 19:00 GMT.
The team will then travel to Morocco to face Madagascar at Stade Mimoun Al Arsi on Monday, March 24.