Madagascar vs Ghana: Asamoah Gyan Fires Up Black Stars Ahead of Important WCQ Clash
- Asamoah Gyan has urged the Black Stars players to give their all ahead of their key clash against Madagascar
- The former Ghana captain addressed the squad to drum home the significance of beating the island nation in Monday's encounter
- Victory against the Barea of Madagascar would be a massive step towards securing a World Cup berth
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Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has issued a passionate rallying cry to the Black Stars, urging them to give their all in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar on Monday, March 24.
Now part of Otto Addo’s backroom staff in an unofficial capacity, Gyan emphasised the importance of full commitment from the squad as they aim to build on their recent emphatic victory.
Source: Getty Images
Black Stars face Madagascar after dismantling Chad
Ghana heads into this encounter riding high after a dominant 5-0 win over Chad, a result that propelled them to the top of Group I.
The Black Stars wasted no time asserting their superiority in that fixture, with Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo breaking the deadlock early.
His strike set the tone for an attacking masterclass as Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, and Ernest Nuamah all found the net in a resounding triumph, as noted by Flashscore.
Madagascar's form ahead of key clash with Ghana
However, their next challenge promises to be far tougher. Madagascar, sitting just two points behind, are enjoying a fine run of form.
The Barea remain unbeaten in their last four World Cup qualifying matches, securing three wins and a draw.
Their latest outing saw them overturn a deficit to thrash the Central African Republic 4-1, per Citi Sports.
Asamoah Gyan issues rallying cry
Understanding the magnitude of the task ahead, Gyan, a veteran of three World Cups, addressed the squad with a message of motivation.
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Madagascar vs Ghana: 5 Key Takeaways as Partey Inspires Black Stars to Another Dominant Win
He implored the players to fight relentlessly for victory, highlighting the importance of intensity and determination.
"Let's go 100% guys. Let's go 100%. I want to see you guys heckling and fighting, and the result will come by itself, please. That’s all I want from you guys," the 39-year-old charged.
The former Black Stars talisman stressed that while the squad possesses immense talent, success will only come with an added layer of commitment and drive.
Source: Getty Images
"You have great players, the talent, everything is there, but that commitment, just a little push… We’ll get there.
"My colleagues, the coaching staff—everyone—has confidence in you guys. If not, we wouldn’t be here.
"The reason why we are here is just to push you a bit, to make sure we get there. That’s all we want. Let’s go for the kill. Let’s go for the win."
Gyan also reminded the players to put club matters aside and channel all their energy into national duty.
Using Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, and Mohammed Kudus as examples, he urged the squad to focus solely on the task at hand.
"Let’s forget about what is happening at club level. This is the national team. Let’s give everything. Count on you guys. Let’s talk to each other, let’s communicate."
He further emphasised teamwork and accountability, encouraging an atmosphere of mutual support on the pitch.
"Nobody should be upset when someone is going forward. Tell the person to go. Just shout. Everything will be fine. We are here to support you with grace, with everything. And as I said, psychologically, let’s prepare for this game. That’s it. Yeah, guys, thank you."
How Ghana can qualify for World Cup
Ghana tops Group I with 12 points, closely followed by Madagascar in second with 10 points, and Mali in third with 8 points. A win for the Black Stars against Madagascar on Monday, March 24, will take them five points clear at the top of the table.
After facing Madagascar, the Black Stars will take on Chad and Mali during the September international window, followed by matches against Central African Republic and Comoros in October to conclude the qualifiers.
With five games remaining, Ghana must accumulate at least 10 points to automatically qualify for the World Cup with one game to spare.
This means a win against Madagascar (away) takes them to 15 points. A win against Chad (away) in September would take them to 18 points.
A home win against Mali would push them to 21 points. A draw away against the Central African Republic would take them to 22 points, securing qualification before their final match against Comoros.
If Ghana achieves this, their last game at home against Comoros would be inconsequential, as they would have already secured one of the automatic qualification spots for the World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Otto Addo sends firm message to Madagascar
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh highlighted that Black Stars coach Otto Addo has sent a firm message to Madagascar.
Securing victory against the island nation will strengthen Ghana’s hold on the top spot in Group I.
Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article
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Proofreading by Jimmy Modise, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
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Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: godwin.tagoe@yen.com.gh.
Jimmy Modise (Sports Copy editor) Jimmy is an experienced copy editor who has for just under two years as junior copy editor at Sports Brief and is still engaged in the same profession now for Legit Media and other projects. He has a Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies, has worked briefly as radio producer, intern sportswriter and copywriter in his storied journey.
