Former midfielder Michael Essien has urged the Black Stars to prepare for the upcoming games against Chad and Madagascar diligently. 

The four-time African champions will face Chad in Ghana and Madagascar in Morocco for World Cup qualifiers.

After the disappointing 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign—marked by a complete lack of wins—Essien pushes the team to train hard and avoid underestimating opponents.

“Yes, we can, but we must prepare ourselves because I sometimes hate to hear that Black Stars couldn’t beat this opposition,” he told Sporty FM.

He added that thorough preparation is crucial when facing an underdog since underdogs have nothing to lose, while a loss for the favorite makes headlines; therefore, opponents must be respected, and games must be well-prepared.

Ghana must win its upcoming games to bolster its position in Group I and secure a fifth Mundial appearance.