Ghana Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has acknowledged the tough challenge that awaits his team as they prepare to face Madagascar in their next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Monday.

The Black Stars moved to the top of Group I after a commanding 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium. The team will now shift focus to their crucial fixture against Madagascar at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium in Morocco, where a win would solidify their position as group leaders and edge them closer to qualification.

However, Otto Addo, speaking in a post-match interview after the win against Chad, insisted that the upcoming game against Madagascar would be a far more difficult test for his side.

“First of all, I am happy that we won and also that we scored a lot of goals, but to be honest, we have to concentrate on Monday; it will be a different game. It will be much, much difficult and we are already thinking ahead of that game,” he stated.

He praised his players for their strong performance against Chad and also expressed gratitude to stakeholders who have continued to back the team.

“I think the boys have done well and we want to congratulate them. We want to thank the President, the Sports Minister for supporting us, the media also for supporting us, giving us good vibes and the people of Ghana for still supporting us despite difficulties in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers,” he added.

Analysing Madagascar’s strengths

Otto Addo highlighted Madagascar’s impressive form, particularly their 4-1 victory over the Central African Republic, stressing that they are a well-organised side and would pose a serious threat to Ghana’s ambitions.

“They have a really, really good team, and surely we are also analysing their last game. They had a big, big victory against the Central African Republic.

“Like I said, it’s going to be very, very tough for us. But the preparation starts now. It’s good that we won, and we can focus on that now,” he noted.

Match details

The highly anticipated encounter between Ghana and Madagascar is set to kick off at 7pm local time on Monday. A win for Ghana would further cement their lead in Group I, boosting their chances of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico.