Former Ghana midfielder, Michael Essien has called on the Black Stars not to underrate any opposition ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The Black Stars will host Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium in their Matchday 5 fixture before travelling to Morocco to take on Madagascar at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium on Monday, June 24.
Following a disappointing campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers—where Ghana failed to secure a single victory—Essien has advised the team not to underestimate their opponents.
“Yes, we can but we have to prepare ourselves because I sometimes hate to hear that Black Stars couldn't beat this opposition,” he told Sporty FM.
“If you are playing against an underdog, you have to prepare well because have nothing to lose but for you, if you lose, it a news so we just to respect our opponents and prepare well for the games,” he added.
Ghana, aiming to secure their fifth World Cup appearance, must win both matches to strengthen their position in Group I.