Black Stars Fans React to Squad Selection for World Cup Qualifiers Against Chad and Mali

Keta: The call-up of players to the Black Stars squad to face Chad and Mali in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers has sparked mixed reactions among fans in Keta. The squad list, which was released by coach Otto Addo, has left some fans divided on the selection of players.According to Ghana News Agency, the list has prompted a range of opinions from excitement over the inclusion of certain players to disappointment about the omission of favorites. Fans have been eagerly discussing the squad list, with some praising the coach's selection.Mr. Fred Dadadzogbor, a sports enthusiast and Black Stars fan, at Anlo-Afiadenyigba junction, shared that the squad includes a mix of experienced and young players. He commended the coach for selecting players such as goalkeeper Joseph Anang of Saint Patrick's Athletic, Caleb Yirenkyi of FC Nordsjaelland, Christopher Bonsu Baah of Al-Qadsiah, and Jonas Adjetey of FC Basel. Dadadzogbor noted that fans are analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the selected players and exp ressing concerns about the team's chances against Chad and Mali.Fans are hopeful for a strong performance in the upcoming matches, with the expectation that the Black Stars will make a significant impression to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mr. Freeman Dogbey, another sports fan, expressed confidence in the team's success, citing past performances in previous qualifying matches.There is, however, some debate over the coach's selection criteria. Some fans have speculated about the factors that influenced the selection of certain players, suggesting that experienced captain Dede Ayew should have been included. Others argue that the selected players possess the necessary skills and experience for the upcoming matches.The 24 players called by coach Otto Addo include three goalkeepers, eight defenders, six midfielders, and seven attackers. They will face Chad on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Stade Olympique Marcel, N'djamena, and Mali on Monday, September 8, at the Accra Sports Stadium.In previous encounters, the Black Stars defeated Mali 2-1 and Chad 5-0 in the first leg fixtures. Fans hope the team can replicate these victories as they resume camping on September 1, 2025.The current standings for Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers show Ghana leading with 15 points, followed by Comoros, Madagascar, Mali, Central African Republic, and Chad. The group winner will directly qualify for the World Cup, while the runner-up may compete in the second round for a chance at the inter-confederation play-offs.