Ghana's Black Stars face a high-stakes match when they welcome Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday night in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
With crucial victories by Madagascar and Mali, Ghana are in a do-or-die situation to revive their World Cup ambitions.
With the passionate home crowd behind them, Otto Addo's squad must rise to the occasion and snatch all three points against a Chad squad keen to play spoilers.
Ghana's qualification process has been erratic, with flashes of brilliance punctuated with letdowns.
Even though the Black Stars have shown their mettle in the last games, their position in the group table leaves no room for complacency.
Chad, on the other hand, are underdogs, but they will seek to capitalize on any pressure that is on the hosts.
Ghana's squad is seasoned and talented, with stars like Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, and new captain Jordan Ayew set to play key roles.
Kudus' creativity, Partey's mastery of the midfield, and Ayew's finishing prowess will be crucial in breaking through Chad's defence.
Chad, although not as much hyped, have shown tenacity in their campaign. Their defence as a cohesive unit and counter-attacking ability can give Ghana woes if the latter cannot wear them down early.
Ghana will be tasked with gaining control of possession, using rapid changes of possession, and playing out wide to disrupt Chad's defence sector.
The Black Stars need to be clinical in front of goal and also avoid complacency since any vulnerability here can prove terminal.
With home advantage and the quality in their squad, Ghana enters this match as favorites. Pressure to deliver, however, can motivate or demoralize the Black Stars.
Pressure is high, and the Black Stars cannot be careless. A victory on Friday will give confidence and keep Ghana in the running for a North America 2026 place.