Ghana head coach Otto Addo has sounded the battle cry ahead of tonight’s crunch FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar, acknowledging the threat posed by the Barea but insisting the Black Stars are ready for the challenge.

The four-time African champions, who thrashed Chad 5-0 last Friday, are brimming with confidence but face a far sterner test against a Madagascar side unbeaten in their last four qualifiers.

Currently sitting just two points behind Ghana, the Barea will be looking to seize the top spot in Group I with a victory in Morocco.

It took a dramatic 96th-minute strike from Iñaki Williams for Ghana to snatch a 1-0 win in their previous encounter last November.

Since then, Madagascar have gone from strength to strength, most recently dismantling the Central African Republic 4-1 in their last outing. But Otto Addo remains unfazed, fully aware of what is at stake and is determined to keep Ghana in pole position, knowing that victory tonight will significantly boost their World Cup qualification hopes.

“This is a six-pointer. They are our direct rivals now, and they want to overtake us,” the Ghana coach remarked after his team’s resounding victory over Chad. “It’s good we won today so we can focus fully on the next match.”

The Black Stars will face a revitalised Madagascar side under French coach Corentin Martins, who has strengthened his squad with five new call-ups while also recalling experienced duo John Baggio and Arohasina Dax. 

Otto Addo expects a stern test but is confident his players will rise to the occasion.

“It will be very tough. They have a really good team, and we all saw their last game – they won 4-1 against CAR. So we know what we’re up against,” he emphasised.

Last Friday’s win over Chad not only propelled Ghana to the top of the group but also provided a much-needed morale booster after a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Black Stars failed to secure a single victory in six games against Angola, Sudan, and Niger, missing out on the tournament in embarrassing fashion.

Now, Otto Addo and his men are determined to set things right, knowing that another win tonight will keep them firmly on course for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. He knows the pressure of staying at the top is immense but remains optimistic.

“First of all, I’m happy with the result. We had a great start against Chad, and that made things easier, but we have to stay focused on Monday – it will be a much more difficult match.”

Goalkeeping selection

One of the major talking points from the Chad match was Otto Addo’s decision to gamble on 32-year-old goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, handing the Hearts of Oak star his senior international debut ahead of more experienced choices like Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Jojo Wollacott. However, the coach has no regrets about his selection.

“He did well in training, and he’s played more matches than the others this season. It was a close call because all three goalkeepers performed well, but Benjamin edged it,” Addo explained.

“For me, it doesn’t matter where a player plays; it’s all about performance. He showed his quality in training, and that’s why he got the nod.”

With momentum on their side and a newfound attacking spark, the Black Stars have an opportunity to strengthen their grip on Group I.

A victory over Madagascar would not only cement their position at the summit but also reinforce the belief that Ghana's Black Stars are on the right track to returning to the world’s biggest football stage.

The gaffer who has come under fire for Ghana’s failed AFCON qualifying campaign and survived calls for his dismissal, also took time to appreciate the support of the nation, adding: “I thank the President, the Sports Minister, and all Ghanaians for standing by us."

"We are determined to qualify for the World Cup, but there’s still a long way to go. We’re happy to be in first place, but we have to defend it until the end. This big win gives us a lot of confidence.”