Coach Otto Addo has spoken ahead of Black Stars clash with Angola today, Friday, November 15, 2024.

In third position in Group F, Ghana seeks its first victory as it faces a country which leads the group and has already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Recently, after a 25-man squad was announced, eight dropped out for various reasons. The team was subsequently replenished with the arrival of 14 players, including new captain Jordan Ayew.

On Wednesday, November 13, the Black Stars arrived in Luanda, and trained Thursday night to face the Palancas Negras.

Speaking to ghanafa.org, Otto Addo spoke about the team’s recent training sessions – three in Accra and one in Luanda.

He described the general atmosphere in camp, recognising today’s match was going to be “very difficult”. However, he expressed confidence of securing “our first victory in this competition”.

He, also, gave an update on players who were totally new to the Black Stars experience, and commented on the team’s cohesion.

“The boys look sharp and in really good condition. It's a good atmosphere. We know about the importance of this match. For me, the boys look ready and sharp,” Addo said.

“Actually we had a good, positive competition in the training matches. From what I saw, they really picked up the idea of how we play. Those are the new players. I'm looking forward to seeing them all. Especially the new players, they can prove themselves.  It's a big challenge because we have a lot of injuries. The others, I think they're hopefully ready to guide them through the game. It's going to be very tough, very difficult. We're looking forward to that game and I know that we will do it.”

After Angola, Ghana hosts Niger in Accra, November 18.

“These are difficult games,” Otto Addo admitted. “You can't take it for granted that they will play, let's say, 50 per cent or so. I know that they (Angola) will be 100 per cent ready. It's going to be difficult, it's an away game. It's going to be very, very tight, I know.”

He noted, however, “I think mentally the boys are ready. I'm looking forward to that game. It's time for our first victory in this competition. I think it's a great opportunity to keep the chance alive.”