Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has kept his cards close to his chest, refusing to confirm whether key defender Alexander Djiku will feature in Monday’s high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Djiku, who missed Ghana’s 1-1 draw against Chad in N’Djamena last Thursday, had travelled to Moscow for medical checks. His absence was felt as Ghana conceded a late equalizer to Celestine Ecau after Jordan Ayew had put the Black Stars ahead early in the game. Since then, speculation has been rife about whether the centre-back will be available for selection in what many have described as a must-win match.
Addressing the media at Sunday’s pre-match press conference, Addo was asked directly about Djiku’s availability. His response was firm and strategic.
“I will never make statements about who will play or who will not,” the coach stressed. “It’s not against you, but I don’t want Mali to know who will play. So, I will never make any statements about players who are playing and players who are not. It’s also always good to surprise the opponent. So, that’s why.”
The coach’s stance reflects his tactical approach as Ghana prepare to face a Mali side that has shown strong form in Group I. With qualification for the World Cup on the line, Addo made it clear that protecting his team’s game plan is a top priority.
Group I Standings and Stakes
As it stands, Ghana leads Group I with 16 points, narrowly ahead of Comoros who sit on 15 points after defeating the Central African Republic 2-0. Mali, meanwhile, trails in third with 12 points, making the Accra clash a crucial fixture for both teams.
A win for Ghana would consolidate their top spot and keep their hopes alive of securing a fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup. However, anything less than victory could throw the group wide open, particularly with Comoros breathing down their necks.
Addo reminded fans and stakeholders that the Black Stars’ destiny remains firmly in their own hands. “The positive truth is that nothing has changed. Comoros have won their game, and they have gotten closer, but for us, nothing has changed,” he said. “We want to beat Mali at home tomorrow, and that is what we expect to do. The only positive thing about Chad is that we still have it in our own hands, and we can decide our destiny, so we will put in everything to win against Mali.”
Djiku’s Importance to the Squad
The uncertainty surrounding Djiku’s return has been a hot topic because of his importance to Ghana’s defensive structure. The 29-year-old defender has consistently been a reliable figure for the Black Stars, combining composure, aerial strength, and leadership at the back.
Without him, Ghana looked vulnerable against Chad, conceding late despite dominating possession and creating several chances. Fans and analysts believe Djiku’s return could make the difference against a well-organized Mali side known for their attacking pace and physicality.
However, Addo has chosen to keep the opposition guessing. “If you tell them, they prepare for it. But if they don’t know, it makes it more difficult for them,” he added. His refusal to confirm Djiku’s availability may be a deliberate tactic to force Mali into uncertainty as they finalize their game plan.
Mali’s Challenge
The Eagles of Mali, coached by Belgian tactician Tom Saintfiet, will arrive in Accra with confidence. Although they sit third in the group, they remain a formidable force. Saintfiet himself has praised Ghana’s squad, expressing surprise that the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
“I have huge respect for the Ghanaian team,” Saintfiet said. “I believe really that they have everything, and it’s shocking that they won’t play AFCON. A country like Ghana must become African champion in the near future with all this quality.”
Such remarks underline the weight of expectation on the Black Stars, who will be playing in front of a home crowd at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Matchday Anticipation
Kickoff is scheduled for 19:00 GMT, with thousands expected to throng the stadium to rally behind the team. The Black Stars are aware of the magnitude of the task ahead, not just to maintain their lead in the group but to restore confidence among fans after a turbulent qualifying campaign that has seen inconsistent performances.
For Otto Addo, the pressure is immense. Every decision, from the starting lineup to substitutions, will be scrutinized. Whether Alexander Djiku starts or not, the coach has made it clear that the team must give their all.
“We will put in everything to win against Mali,” he declared. “It is in our hands, and we are ready to fight for it.”
As the nation waits in anticipation, one thing is certain: Monday’s showdown between Ghana and Mali promises to be a decisive moment in the Black Stars’ journey toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
