Black Stars wrap up preparations ahead of Mali trip

The Ghana national football team, the Black Stars, wrapped up preparations for their critical World Cup qualifier against Mali on Tuesday with a final training session at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The team, boasting a fully fit 26-man squad for the first time in recent memory, will depart later today for Bamako, Mali, for the crunch tie. This match holds immense significance for new coach Otto Addo, marking his first competitive game at the helm.

Ghana seek to break a string of disappointing results, having failed to secure a victory so far in 2024. Their last win came against Madagascar in the World Cup qualifiers, followed by a loss to Comoros, a winless run at the Africa Cup of Nations, another defeat to Nigeria, and a recent draw with Uganda.

The Black Stars are expected to land in Bamako on Tuesday ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Mali@Bill_Eshun is in Bamako 🇲🇱 and has more details.#3SportsGH #BlackStars pic.twitter.com/IB3B3HlbEY

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 3, 2024

The Black Stars remain hopeful under Addo’s leadership, aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Currently sitting fourth in Group I, Ghana trails Comoros, Mali, and Madagascar by three points.

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They will face Mali on Thursday, June 6 in what appears to be the most important game for Otto Addo who begins his tenure as the permanent head coach of the team.

The team appears focused and determined to turn their fortunes around.