Former Ghana captain and coach Kwesi Appiah has thrown his weight behind the Black Stars’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes, citing the importance of resolving the lingering captaincy conundrum.
The team’s leadership has been a subject of debate, with Andre Ayew and Thomas Partey’s absence sparking controversy over who should wear the armband.
In recent matches, Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew have both been entrusted with the captain’s role, but the constant switching has drawn criticism from fans, ex-players, and pundits.
During the October international window, Mohammed Kudus took the reins as captain in Ghana’s AFCON qualifying doubleheader against Sudan, filling in for the absent Thomas Partey and Andre Ayew.
However, in the November internationals, Jordan Ayew was handed the captain’s armband for Ghana’s final group stage matches against Angola and Niger.
Appiah, now at the helm of Sudan, emphasized the need for unity within the squad ahead of this month’s crucial fixtures.
“I am hoping that what I have heard is true, that they’re trying to sort out the captaincy issue. If there are other issues, I hope they resolve them, but you know I’m not with the team, so it’s not everything that I know.”
“If they’re able to sort the captaincy issue, then it’s okay, because the players we have are quality, and then we make sure there’s no division in the team. Without unity, we cannot achieve anything, so I hope and pray that Ghana will qualify for the World Cup” (Via Luv FM).
The former Black Star skipper stressed that resolving the captaincy issue is crucial in fostering a united front within the team.
With Thomas Partey having turned down a permanent leadership role, Jordan Ayew has been confirmed as the team’s skipper, with Alexander Djiku serving as his deputy.
Following a dismal display in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, which saw Ghana miss out on the continent’s premier tournament for the first time in 20 years, the four-time AFCON champions are poised to return to action in the March international break, with crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Madagascar on the horizon.
Ghana will play against Chad on March 17 at the Accra Sports Stadium, followed by a crucial fixture against Madagascar in Morocco.
The Black Stars are currently tied at the top of Group I with Comoros, boasting nine points from four matches.
