Ghana vs Chad

Ghana, the four-time African champions, are set to resume their campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they prepare to face Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday. This match marks a crucial juncture for both teams, albeit for different reasons. While Ghana has been performing steadily in the qualifiers, Chad finds itself in a precarious position, languishing at the bottom of Group I. The Black Stars, as Ghana’s national team is affectionately known, have accumulated seven points from their four matches, placing them third in the group standings. They are narrowly behind Chad, who occupy the second spot in the playoff position, but only on goal difference. This sets the stage for an intriguing encounter, as both teams aim to secure vital points to bolster their chances of advancing in the qualifiers.

Ghana’s journey in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has been relatively solid, with three wins out of four matches. They have managed to defeat Madagascar, Mali, and the Central African Republic, showcasing their ability to navigate the challenges of the group stage. Their only setback came in November 2023, when they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Comoros at the Stade de Moroni. The decisive moment in that match came from a first-half strike by Myziane Maolida, a 26-year-old forward who capitalized on Ghana’s defensive lapse. Despite this loss, Ghana has demonstrated resilience and consistency, traits that have been instrumental in their quest to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.

However, Ghana’s recent form across all competitions has been less than stellar. The team has failed to secure a victory in their last eight matches, a streak that has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. This disappointing run includes their failure to qualify for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where they were eliminated by Nigeria in a 3-1 aggregate defeat. The first leg of that encounter ended in a goalless draw in Accra on December 22, 2023, but Ghana’s hopes were dashed in the second leg when they conceded three goals within the first 25 minutes. Ismaila Sodiq, Nduka Junior, and Isaac Savior were the architects of Nigeria’s commanding lead, while Stephen Amankona’s 73rd-minute goal served as little more than a consolation for Ghana. This defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, especially considering Ghana’s rich history and pedigree in African football.

The Black Stars’ struggles were further highlighted in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where they endured a dismal campaign. Ghana failed to win any of their six matches in Group F, suffering three defeats and managing only three draws. This poor performance left them rooted to the bottom of the group with just three points from a possible 18, a stark contrast to their usual dominance in African football. The team’s inability to find consistency and deliver results has been a source of frustration for both players and supporters, and it has undoubtedly added pressure to their World Cup qualifying campaign.

As Ghana prepares to face Chad, the team will be eager to turn the tide and reignite their winning momentum. The match presents an opportunity for Otto Addo’s side to address their recent shortcomings and reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses. The Black Stars will rely on key players such as Mohamed Kudus and Jordan Ayew to lead the charge and deliver a performance that can inspire confidence moving forward. Kudus, in particular, has been a standout figure for Ghana, and his contributions will be crucial if the team is to overcome Chad and secure a vital victory.

On the other hand, Chad’s campaign in the World Cup qualifiers has been nothing short of disastrous. The team finds itself at the bottom of Group I, having lost all four of their matches so far. Their struggles have been compounded by a lack of attacking prowess, as they have managed to score just one goal while conceding nine. This defensive frailty and offensive inefficiency have left Chad in a dire situation, with their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup hanging by a thread. Only Mauritania, another team in the qualifiers, has fared worse in terms of goal-scoring, having failed to register a single goal in their matches.

Chad’s recent results offer little cause for optimism. The team has failed to win any of their last 11 matches across all competitions, recording five draws and six defeats. This poor run of form has been a recurring theme for Chad, and it has significantly hampered their ability to compete at the highest level. In the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Chad finished at the bottom of Group G with just three points, mirroring their struggles in the World Cup qualifiers. Their woes continued in the CHAN playoffs, where they were eliminated by Congo DR in a 4-2 aggregate defeat in December 2023. These setbacks have highlighted the challenges facing Chad’s national team, as they strive to make an impact on the continental stage.

As Chad prepares to face Ghana, the team will be desperate to secure a positive result that can lift spirits and provide a glimmer of hope in their qualifying campaign. However, the odds are stacked against them, given their recent form and the quality of their opponents. Chad’s head coach, Tahir Gardia, will need to devise a tactical plan that can neutralize Ghana’s strengths while capitalizing on any opportunities that arise. The team’s lack of cutting edge in attack remains a significant concern, and addressing this issue will be crucial if they are to stand any chance of causing an upset.

The upcoming match between Ghana and Chad is more than just a World Cup qualifier; it is a test of character and resilience for both teams. For Ghana, it is an opportunity to bounce back from their recent disappointments and reassert their dominance in African football. A victory would not only strengthen their position in the group but also serve as a morale booster for the team and their supporters. For Chad, the match represents a chance to defy the odds and secure a result that can reignite their qualifying campaign. While the task ahead is daunting, the beauty of football lies in its unpredictability, and Chad will be hoping to channel that spirit as they take on the Black Stars.

In conclusion, the clash between Ghana and Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium promises to be a compelling encounter, with both teams having much at stake. Ghana will be aiming to build on their solid start to the World Cup qualifiers and overcome their recent struggles, while Chad will be seeking to turn their fortunes around and secure a much-needed victory. As the two teams prepare to lock horns, the stage is set for a match that could have significant implications for their respective qualifying campaigns. Whether it is Ghana’s quest for redemption or Chad’s fight for survival, this match is sure to captivate football fans and provide a thrilling spectacle.