Five Biggest Winners From Ghana’s Latest International Window
Eight goals in two games is no fluke. The Black Stars are returning to their fluid best, and Ghanaian football fans have every reason to be excited about their national team’s resurgence.
Mohammed Kudus capped off an impressive team performance during March’s international window by scoring his first goal since January 2024 against Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This period has seen several Ghanaian players rediscover their form and demonstrate what it truly means to represent their nation on the international stage.
Ghana’s Remarkable Turnaround
While Ghana struggled against similar opposition in 2024, their first two matches of 2025 have already matched last year’s win tally. This improvement isn’t accidental – it’s the result of dedication, effective planning, and tactical balance.
The Black Stars showed remarkable resilience, playing two matches within 72 hours without significant fatigue. Their dominant performance against Madagascar required just a light cool-down session, demonstrating their growing confidence and fitness levels.
The Top Performers
1. Otto Addo (Head Coach)
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has proven himself a master of World Cup qualification matches. With six qualifying games across two stints, the 49-year-old remains undefeated (4 wins, 2 draws), boasting an impressive 66.6% win rate in qualifiers.
Addo demonstrated tactical flexibility, implementing a 4-1-4-1 system against Chad and switching to a 3-5-2 formation against Madagascar. His decision to start Benjamin Asare in goal was particularly well-received by fans following the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper’s impressive debut.
2. Jordan Ayew (Captain)
The new Black Stars captain has embraced his leadership role with outstanding performances. Ayew has contributed to nine goals (5 goals, 4 assists) in six World Cup qualifying matches, silencing critics and establishing himself as a crucial figure in Ghana’s attack.
Continuing the Ayew family legacy in Ghanaian football, Jordan has shown he’s more than capable of leading this young, talented squad to success.
3. Benjamin Asare (Goalkeeper)
The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper made an immediate impact in his debut Black Stars call-up, keeping clean sheets against both Chad and Madagascar. This marked Ghana’s first consecutive clean sheets since September and November 2022.
Despite some nervous moments with distribution, Asare made crucial saves – including an excellent stop against Madagascar – to justify Otto Addo’s declaration that he’s currently Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper.
4. Ernest Nuamah (Midfielder)
The Lyon winger showed his versatility by excelling in a central role against Chad. Nuamah’s direct running, sharp movement, and technical ability caused constant problems for opponents, culminating in a well-deserved goal.
His performances during the international break provide perfect preparation for Lyon’s upcoming Europa League clash against Manchester United, where his form could prove crucial.
5. Gregory De Grauwe (Video Analyst)
Ghana’s set-piece specialist has made a significant impact since joining the technical team. His work was evident as Ghana scored five times from set pieces during the window, including headers from Mohammed Salisu and Thomas Partey.
De Grauwe’s analysis of opposition weaknesses and implementation of effective set-piece routines have added a new dimension to Ghana’s attacking threat.
Looking Ahead
While the Black Stars are beginning to find their rhythm, there’s still work to be done to fully win back skeptical fans after last year’s disappointing performances. However, the March international window has provided genuine reasons for optimism as Ghana builds toward the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The emergence of new talents like Asare and Nuamah, combined with the leadership of Ayew and Addo’s tactical flexibility, suggests Ghanaian football may be entering an exciting new phase.
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