Sports News of Thursday, 22 August 2024

Source: ghanasoccernet.com

AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Otto Addo submits Black Stars squad for Angola and Niger fixtures

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo Black Stars head coach Otto Addo

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has finalized and submitted his squad to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, have been grouped alongside Angola, Niger, and Sudan in Group F for the qualification stage.

The Black Stars will kick off their campaign next month, starting with a home match against Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium on September 5, followed by an away fixture against Niger on September 9.

In preparation for these crucial matches, Addo has opted for a squad devoid of any Ghana Premier League players, focusing instead on assembling a robust lineup primarily composed of foreign-based talent.

This decision underscores the coach's intent to field an experienced and competitive team capable of securing early qualification for the tournament, which is set to be hosted in Morocco next year.

Ghana is entering these qualifiers with strong momentum, having secured back-to-back wins against Mali and the Central African Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers held earlier in June.

With high expectations and the pressure to perform, Addo and his squad are determined to maintain their winning streak as they seek to solidify their place in the 2025 AFCON.