Ghanaian midfielder and Arsenal star, Thomas Partey, is confident in his ability to lead the team's young players to a much-needed victory against Mali in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The match is scheduled to take place on June 6, 2024, at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako, with a kickoff time of 19:00.

Despite his recent absence from the team, Partey believes that his extensive experience with the Black Stars, since his debut, as well as his understanding of the coach's tactics, will be instrumental in securing a positive result.

"I know I haven't played recently for the team, but I have played a lot of matches for the Black Stars since my debut. I understand the system the coach wants, and I have the experience to help the young group of players achieve the kind of result we want," he said at a pre-match press conference in Bamako.

Ghana is currently in a challenging position, having had a mixed start in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers, with one win and one loss in their first two matches. The team began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Madagascar in Kumasi but then suffered a 1-0 defeat to Comoros in Moroni. Consequently, Ghana is currently in 4th place in the group.

After the Mali clash, Ghana will face the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Monday, June 10, 2024. The Black Stars are hopeful that securing victories in both games will significantly boost their chances of qualifying for the World Cup, set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.