“BLACK STARS AIM FOR REDEMPTION: Ghana Faces Mali in Crucial World Cup Clash Today”

Amidst a turbulent start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying journey, Coach Otto Addo and the Black Stars brace themselves for a crucial showdown against Mali at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako today, June 6, in search of victory and redemption.

Okohba Agyemang MensahJune 6, 2024

2 minutes read

Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s Black Stars are determined to shake off the disappointment of a disheartening 0-1 defeat to Comoros in their last World Cup qualifier, under the guidance of Irish coach Chris Hughton. With only the group winners securing automatic qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the Ghanaian squad recognizes the importance of this upcoming clash against Mali to steer their campaign back on course.

Otto Addo, who has made World Cup qualification a top priority, has called up the finest talents available for the upcoming encounters against Mali today and Central African Republic next Monday. Despite historical statistics favoring Ghana, with 11 victories out of their 24 previous encounters with Mali, prevailing in Bamako presents a formidable challenge for the youthful squad.

The Eagles of Mali, who crashed out of the 2023 AFCON in the Round of 16, exude a sense of resurgence, bolstered by a stable core predominantly comprising France-based talents. Coach Éric Sékou Chelle’s side has been impressive this year, marked by two wins, two draws, and a solitary loss in competitive fixtures.

Black Stars centre-back Mohammed Salisu acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Mali but exudes optimism in Ghana’s talented young squad. “We know it’s not going to be easy. Mali has a strong team, but with hard work, we can prevail,” Salisu stated. He emphasized the importance of the match and called upon the nation to rally behind the youthful team.

The last encounter between the two sides saw Mali running away with a 3-0 victory in a friendly in Turkey four years ago. Key players from that match, including Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Jordan Ayew, Alexander Djiku, and Thomas Partey, are part of Otto Addo’s squad who are expected to get a good result in today’s encounter.

Mali will aim to maintain their unbeaten run on home soil to strengthen their bid for a maiden World Cup appearance. Coach Chelle has put together a formidable team featuring stars such as Amadou Haidara of RB Leipzig, Mohamed Camara of AS Monaco, and Aliou Dieng of Al Ahly. The return of Sekou Koita after recovering from injuries further boosts their lineup.

Ghana too have talent in abundance and coach Otto Addo will expect midfielder Thomas Partey’s leadership to provide inspiration for poster boy Mohammed Kudus and other talented players like Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, and veteran Jordan Ayew to secure a vital triumph and rekindle Ghana’s World Cup aspirations.

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