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Derrick Arthur’s Black Stars Debut Delayed as FIFA Holds Up Nationality Switch

Cologne-based FC Union Berlin defender Derrick Arthur was left disappointed after missing out on his much-anticipated debut for the Ghana Black Stars during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad 🇹🇩 and Mali 🇲🇱.

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Arthur, who was born in Hamburg and previously represented Germany at youth level, recently pledged his international future to Ghana. However, FIFA has yet to finalize his nationality switch from German to Ghanaian, making him ineligible to play despite being included in Otto Addo’s squad.

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The setback was even more disheartening as members of his fan club travelled to the stadium to cheer him on, only to see him sit out the matches because of paperwork delays. Their frustration echoed the disappointment of many Ghanaians who were eager to watch the Bundesliga defender in national colours for the first time.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has assured fans that all necessary documents have already been submitted to FIFA and expressed confidence that clearance will be granted soon. Once approved, Derrick Arthur is expected to add strength, pace, and competition to the Black Stars’ left-back position.

For now, the Cologne-based defender must remain patient, but both supporters and technical handlers believe his debut is only a matter of time.

Otto Addo Praises Kwasi Sibo After Impressive Black Stars Debut

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has heaped praise on midfielder Kwasi Sibo following his impressive debut for the senior national team. Sibo, who recently joined the squad, made his first appearance in Ghana’s crucial qualifier and immediately caught the attention of both fans and technical handlers.

Speaking after the match, Otto Addo highlighted the midfielder’s strong mentality and seamless integration into the squad.

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“I think he really did well,” Addo said. “It’s not easy to come from a different environment to fit into this world (team), but he knows a lot of players in the team already, and he connected well. He’s very self-confident, and I think he did extremely well, especially considering this was his first performance – he’s a warrior throughout, you could see.”

Sibo, who made headlines weeks ago after a viral jersey swap moment with French superstar Kylian Mbappé, has since carried that confidence onto the international stage. His debut showcased not only his resilience but also his ability to adapt quickly under pressure.

Fans and analysts have already tipped him as one to watch in the coming fixtures, with many noting that his presence in midfield adds a new dynamic to the Black Stars setup.

Otto Addo’s endorsement is expected to boost Sibo‘s confidence further as Ghana continues its journey in the qualifiers. The young midfielder will now look to cement his place in the team and build on this promising start.

Video: Kwasi Sibo Arrives at Black Stars Camp After Viral Jersey Swap With Kylian Mbappé

Ghanaian midfielder Kwasi Sibo, popularly known as Osibo, has reported to the Black Stars camp in high spirits after making global headlines with his much-talked-about jersey swap with French superstar Kylian Mbappé.

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The midfielder’s special moment with the Paris Saint-Germain forward went viral across social media, drawing admiration from fans both at home and abroad. Videos of the exchange have since been shared widely, with many Ghanaians celebrating the recognition their player received on such a big stage.

Arriving in camp this week, Osibo looked upbeat and motivated as he joined his teammates ahead of Ghana’s international fixtures. Team insiders revealed that the midfielder has been brimming with confidence, eager to translate his newfound attention into stellar performances for the national side.

Supporters say his uplifting moment with Mbappé has not only boosted his morale but also put Ghanaian football back in the global spotlight.

The Black Stars technical team is optimistic that Osibo’s positive energy will reflect on the pitch as Ghana prepares for crucial qualifying matches.

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Otto Addo Unbothered by Statistics of Wins and Losses

Ghana Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo, has stated that he is unfazed by the statistics surrounding his record of wins and losses with the national team.

Speaking to the media, the coach emphasized that football is about more than numbers on paper. According to him, his focus remains on building a competitive team that can deliver consistent performances on the pitch, rather than worrying about critics dissecting his results.

Otto Addo – Blackstars Coach

“I don’t allow statistics to dictate my emotions. What matters most to me is progress, teamwork, and how the players respond to the philosophy we are building,” Addo explained.

The Black Stars coach added that his priority is ensuring Ghana qualifies for upcoming tournaments and restores its reputation as a dominant force in African football. While some fans have expressed concern about recent performances, Otto Addo maintained that patience and support are crucial for success.

He further noted that football results often fluctuate, but the foundation of a strong team takes time to solidify. “I remain committed to the job. Our focus is on development, discipline, and results will come naturally,” he assured.

The Black Stars continue preparations for their next international assignments, with expectations high for improved performances under his leadership.

Nana Aba Anamoah Slams Otto Addo: Otto Addo „Abon“

Well-known media personality Nana Aba Anamoah (sometimes referred to simply as “Nana Aba”) launched a scathing critique of Ghana head coach Otto Addo, following the Black Stars’ surprising 1-1 draw against Chad on 4 September 2025. She described the result as “embarrassing” and suggested that Addo’s tactics and preparation were to blame for Ghana’s lackluster performance. 

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Otto Addo Fires Back at Team Performance

In his post-match press conference, Addo expressed his deep frustration over Ghana’s inability to convert domination into a win. Despite controlling possession, registering numerous attempts and corners, the Black Stars still failed to seal victory. As he put it:

“I can’t say we played excellently … because it was a draw. … We had a lot of corners, a lot of shots … and normally we have to win this game.” 

Blaming the Conditions

Addo also pointed to the poor pitch conditions in N’Djamena, condemning the hard, dried-out surface for slowing down his team’s fluid European-style play:

“The pitch was very slow for us … When it’s not watered … we can’t play fast … it’s a disadvantage for us.” 

The Match at a Glance

Date & Venue: 4 September 2025 at Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno, N’Djamena, Chad Ghana Goalscorer: Jordan Ayew (17th minute) Chad Equalizer: Celestine Ecua (88th minute), marking Chad’s first World Cup qualifying point  Group I Standings: Ghana remain top with 16 points, Madagascar second with 13, Mali third with 12.

Stakes & What’s Next

Ghana now turns its attention to a pivotal Group I fixture against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, 8 September 2025 at 19:00 GMT. A win will help them secure top spot—and direct qualification—while any slip-up could open the door for rivals. 

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Black Stars Pegged Back by Chad in Dramatic 1–1 World Cup Qualifier Draw

N’Djamena, Chad – September 4, 2025 – In a tense Group I clash at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno, Ghana were held to a stoppage-time 1–1 draw by Chad, ending their winning run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Goals & Key Moments

Jordan Ayew gave Ghana the lead in the 17th minute, converting a simple tap-in from a Mohammed Kudus assist. It was Ayew’s sixth goal of the qualifying campaign, placing him among the top scorers in the group  . Just as Ghana appeared set on cruising to another win, Chad substitute Célestin Ecua struck a stunning equaliser in the 89th minute. His composed finish inside the box stunned both the Black Stars and visiting supporters.

Tactical Flow

Ghana controlled possession for much of the match, creating multiple chances but failing to find the killer second goal. Chad’s disciplined and physical approach successfully frustrated the visitors after the break.

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Coach Otto Addo turned to his bench in the final quarter, introducing Kamaldeen Sulemana, Francis Bonsu Baah, and Osman Ibrahim in search of a breakthrough. Yet Chad held firm and capitalised on Ghana’s lateness to claim a morale-boosting draw.

Why It Matters

Ghana remain top of Group I with 16 points from seven games, though their grip has loosened. Comoros sit second on 12 points, with Madagascar and Mali trailing closely  . The result effectively ends Chad’s hopes of qualification—they remain rooted to the bottom with just one point from seven matches.

What’s Next?

Ghana now turn their attention to a decisive home meeting with Mali on September 8, where a win could significantly strengthen their position in the group. Meanwhile, Chad take solace from a spirited performance that produced their first qualification point.

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Bottom Line

What looked to be another routine win for the Ivory Coast-bound Black Stars ended in unexpected drama, as Chad delivered a stirring late equaliser. Ghana’s advantage in Group I narrows, leaving the race for qualification intriguingly open.

Black Stars Hold Final Training Session at Accra Sports Stadium Ahead of World Cup Qualifier Against Chad

The Ghana Black Stars have wrapped up their final training session at the Accra Sports Stadium ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad.

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Head coach Otto Addo and his technical team supervised the intense drills, focusing on tactical shape, set-piece routines, and team chemistry as Ghana seeks a vital win to boost their qualification hopes. The session, which was open to the media and a limited number of fans, showcased a motivated squad eager to deliver for the nation.

Key players including Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, and Jordan Ayew participated fully, giving fans hope of a strong performance. The atmosphere in camp is reported to be positive, with the players determined to secure all three points.

The Black Stars currently sit in a competitive qualifying group and know that victory over Chad is essential to stay on track for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Ghanaians are expected to rally behind the team as the nation looks forward to another historic World Cup journey.

Otto Addo Names Ghana’s 24-Man Squad for World Cup Qualifiers Against Chad and Mali

Ghana Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has unveiled a 24-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to take place in early September. The team will face Chad in N’Djamena on 4 September, followed by a home match against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on 8 September.

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Squad Highlights

Returnees & Stars: The squad includes key regulars such as Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Antoine Semenyo, and Iñaki Williams  . Noteworthy Call-ups: Derrick Arthur Köhn earns his first senior call-up from Union Berlin  . Kamal Deen Sulemana (Atalanta BC) also returns to the fold, alongside midfielder Elisha Owusu after injury  . Additional inclusions include Jonas Adjetey, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Joseph Paintsil, Tariq Lamptey, Caleb Yirenkyi, and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.

Goalkeepers

Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen) Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic) Benjamin Asare (Accra Hearts of Oak) — the only home-based player selected, and Ghana’s newly appointed first-choice keeper.

Squad Breakdown by Position (Based on MetroTVOnline summary):

Defenders: Gideon Mensah, Derrick Arthur Köhn, Mohammed Salisu, Jerome Opoku, Alexander Djiku, Jonas Adjetey, Tariq Lamptey, Caleb Yirenkyi Midfielders: Elisha Owusu, Mohammed Kudus, Ibrahim Osman, Ibrahim Sulemana, Thomas Partey, Abdul Salis Samed Forwards: Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Joseph Paintsil, Jerry Afriyie, Jordan Ayew, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Iñaki Williams.

Key Absences

Andre “Dede” Ayew has once again been omitted from the squad, drawing significant attention given his long-standing presence in the team.

What This Means for Ghana’s World Cup Quest

Ghana currently tops CAF Group I, with a solid points lead in the race for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup  . The blend of established internationals and fresh talent indicates Otto Addo’s strategy of balancing experience with youth in the high-stakes campaign ahead.

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