Ghana legend Stephen Appiah has thrown his full weight behind the Black Stars as they gear up for their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic in Morocco on Wednesday.
Appiah, who captained Ghana during their historic first-ever World Cup appearance in 2006, says he’s seen enough from Otto Addo’s men in training to believe they can deliver when it matters most. His optimism, he explained, stems from the intensity and focus he witnessed during their final sessions.
“As I watch the guys train, it reminds me of some of the biggest qualifiers we played, like against South Africa at FNB,” Appiah reflected to the press. “It’s a huge game for Ghana and for them too because the World Cup is massive.”
⚽️ It’s GO TIME! 👊🏾
🌟 #BlackStars face Central African Republic in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Stade d’Honneur de Meknès in Morocco! 🇨🇫🆚🇬🇭
⏱️ Kick-off at 4PM — #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/2pGKD522G6
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) October 8, 2025
The former Juventus and Fenerbahçe midfielder, long celebrated for his leadership and composure, believes the team’s recent performance hiccups have provided crucial lessons.
“Against Chad, we started a bit slow, but I believe they have learnt their lessons now,” he noted.
With the Black Stars sitting atop Group I and just one win away from confirming their place at the 2026 showpiece in North America, Appiah urged the players to summon every ounce of belief and national pride.
“We believe in them, and I know they believe in themselves. They should do it for themselves and for Mother Ghana,” he concluded.
Otto Addo lauds red-hot Kudus ahead of Central African Republic clash
As the decisive clash looms, Appiah’s words echo the mood of a nation eager to see its stars reclaim their place on football’s grandest stage.
