Black Stars Seek Redemption in Key World Cup Qualifier Against Comoros
Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, will face Comoros in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Sunday, October 12, at the Accra Sports Stadium, with a strong desire to settle old scores.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President George Afriyie expressed full confidence in the technical team’s determination to deliver a win, following two previous losses to Comoros in recent years.
“This is more than just another qualifier. It’s a chance for redemption,” Afriyie told the media. “I believe 100 percent that the technical team is focused on setting the record straight.”
The outcome of Sunday’s match holds significant weight for Ghana, which currently sits at the top of Group I with 22 points. A win would strengthen the team’s chances of securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
But beyond points, the fixture carries emotional and psychological importance. Ghana suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat to Comoros during the group stages of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon a result that contributed to the team’s early exit. More recently, the Black Stars were edged out again by the island nation in Moroni, during Matchday 2 of the current qualification campaign.
The Black Stars have been in camp in Accra since the beginning of the week, holding intensive training sessions under the supervision of head coach Otto Addo. The squad includes a blend of experienced players such as Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Mohammed Kudus, alongside promising young talents from the Ghana Premier League and international leagues.
Insiders say the technical bench has been working on tactical discipline, ball retention, and high pressing key weaknesses that were exposed during the previous encounter against Comoros.
While the team has shown moments of inconsistency in recent months, George Afriyie believes there has been a marked improvement.
“I have seen clear signs of progress. The players are more focused and cohesive. The build-up play is better, and the defensive transitions are sharper,” he observed.
Comoros, a relatively new force in African football, has proven to be a difficult opponent for Ghana despite its lower FIFA ranking. The team stunned the continent with its historic victory over Ghana at the 2021 AFCON, marking its first-ever win in a major international tournament.
That loss remains one of the most talked-about upsets in Ghanaian football history. It prompted widespread criticism of the Black Stars’ performance and led to restructuring within the GFA’s technical team.
The island nation’s ability to pull off another win during this qualification cycle has raised alarms within Ghana’s football community. Sunday’s match offers the Black Stars a crucial opportunity to overturn the narrative and reassert their dominance.
As anticipation builds, tickets for the Accra Sports Stadium clash are reportedly selling fast. The GFA is urging fans to arrive early and wear national colours to rally behind the team.
Football analyst Christopher Opoku Jnr. notes that public sentiment toward the Black Stars has shifted in recent months. “While there was significant skepticism after the AFCON exit, recent performances have revived some hope. But fans want more than potential they want results,” he said.
Ghana is one of several African teams vying for a spot at the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has secured nine direct slots and one intercontinental play-off slot, increasing the stakes for each qualifier.
Other regional giants like Nigeria, Senegal, and Morocco are also navigating tough qualifying groups. For Ghana, consistent wins and high goal difference could be the deciding factor in a tight race.
Kick-Off Time and Match Details
- Match: Ghana vs. Comoros
- Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025
- Venue: Accra Sports Stadium
- Kick-off: 19:00 GMT
- Group: I (African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup)
Live coverage will be available on GTV Sports+, StarTimes, and online platforms. The GFA has also partnered with several local radio stations to provide real-time commentary for fans unable to watch the game live.
Sunday’s fixture is more than a group-stage decider. It is a test of resilience, pride, and progress for a team looking to restore its status on the African and global football stage. A convincing performance against Comoros would not only solidify Ghana’s path to the World Cup but also restore national confidence in the Black Stars.
With home advantage, fan backing, and a point to prove, the Black Stars have every incentive to deliver a result that reflects their pedigree and possibly, rewrite a difficult chapter in recent football history.
Read also: Otto Addo Deserves Patience, Not Pressure – Nii Lante Vanderpuye Urges Support Amid World Cup Quest
