Black Stars coach Otto Addo has defended the strong words delivered by Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku to the Black Stars squad ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sudan.
Ghana will host Sudan on Thursday at the Accra Sports Stadium, with kick-off set for 16:00 GMT, in the first of a two-legged encounter. The return leg is scheduled for Monday, October 14, at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.
Okraku’s fiery speech came during a team dinner on Tuesday, where he expressed disappointment over the Black Stars’ recent performances in the qualifiers. Ghana lost at home to Angola and managed only a late draw against Niger, leaving the team with just one point from two games and sitting third in Group F.
Okraku warned players to step up their game and hinted at supporting Otto Addo in dropping those who lack the desire to wear the Ghana shirt.
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While some fans criticised Okraku’s outburst, Black Stars coach Otto Addo supported the GFA President’s stance during a pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
“I think it’s good. Sometimes you need another person to add their voice to what has already been said,” Addo stated. “I’ve spoken to the players, and so have the technical staff. His comments were necessary.”
Ghana will be looking to secure their first win in the qualifiers today as they aim to revive their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON tournament.
