Otto Addo Banks on Partey and One Key Player to Secure Ghana’s Win Against Chad

• Otto Addo has trusted Thomas Partey and one other key player as Ghana faces Chad in a must-win World Cup qualifier
• The 49-year-old gave his explanation at the pre-match conference on Thursday before the team's final training session
• A win against Les Sao at the Accra Sports Stadium would potentially see Ghana to the top of Group I, all things being equal

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Ghana coach Otto Addo has admitted that he is under enormous pressure to guide the Black Stars to a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During a pre-match presser, the tactician spoke about the game against Chad tonight (March 21, 2025) and the players who must step up.

With Ghana’s World Cup qualification hopes poised, Addo is banking on Thomas Partey and another top player to play key roles.

Under Addo, a disappointing qualification campaign saw Ghana fail to advance to the main AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco after finishing bottom of their pool.

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That disappointment left fans questioning the Black Stars' direction, but the ongoing qualifiers for the 2026 Mundial have offered an opportunity to restore belief.

Ghana must secure a convincing result against Group I underdogs Chad before travelling to Morocco for a showdown with Madagascar three days later.

Given Madagascar’s comeback victory over the Central African Republic, they could be an obstacle for Ghana, making victory in Friday’s fixture non-negotiable.

Otto Addo banks hopes on Partey, another

Ahead of the match tonight (March 21, 2025), Addo clarified that he was counting on Partey and captain Jordan Ayew to lead the team through the tricky game.

"Jordan Ayew and Thomas Partey are experienced players," Addo said, as quoted by Luv FM. "They know they need to lead the team. If they are able to do that, we will be successful."

With a combined 153 international caps, the duo is among the most seasoned members of Ghana’s 23-man squad.

Jordan, in particular, boasts 104 appearances, making him the most-capped player in the Black Stars, per Transfermarkt.

Jordan Ayew’s importance to Ghana's chances

Since Addo’s reappointment, Jordan has been Ghana’s most potent attacking threat, accounting for 58.33% of the Black Stars’ 12 goals under the former Borussia Dortmund scout.

His tally of seven strikes includes a hat-trick against the Central African Republic, a game where Ghana mounted a comeback 4-3 victory. His ability to convert chances will be crucial against Chad.

Partey’s role in Black Stars midfield

While Partey has endured injury setbacks in recent years, his presence remains vital in stabilising the midfield.

His last goal for the national team came in a decisive 2022 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria in 2022.

His overall contribution extends beyond scoring, with 13 goals in 49 caps and the ability to make an impact.

A defining moment for the Black Stars

With Ghana desperate for a strong response after recent disappointments, all eyes will be on Partey and Ayew to inspire the team in a must-win fixture.

If they can translate their experience into success on the pitch, the Black Stars could take a significant step toward reclaiming a place on the world stage.

Partey unshaken after losing Black Stars captaincy

YEN.com.gh also reported that Thomas Partey is unshaken by Jordan Ayew being given the captaincy, per GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum.

The Arsenal midfielder was excluded from Otto Addo’s leadership setup, with reports suggesting he turned down the vice-captaincy amid rumours of discontent.

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Source: YEN.com.gh