Ghana coach Chris Hughton positive on Madagascar hurdle, talks Andre Ayew return and Nurudeen inclusion

Ghana coach Chris Hughton is upbeat ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Madagascar on Friday.

The Black Stars hope to return to winning ways after defeats in their two friendlies with Mexico and the USA last September.

Ghana lost to El Tricolor 2-0 followed by a 4-0 thrashing from the United States Men’s National Team in Nashville.

Ahead of the World Cup qualifier, Hughton remains confident that they will kick-start the campaign with a good result.

“We know the demands of our Ghanaian supporters and this side has the same ambition. Our objective is to win and kick-start the campaign with confidence.

The focus is on the two games and tomorrow we have to win,” Hughton told the media.

The experienced gaffer also touched on Andre Ayew who returns to the national side despite not playing competitive football in the 2023/24 season.
The Black Stars skipper has now joined French Ligue 1 outfit Le Havre.

“I have watched him train and even though he’s not played, our team dynamics means we need our leader.

“He’s a leader and an experienced player. We need balance and he will be a key member of our campaign tomorrow.”

Nurudeen Abdulai’s inclusion in the setup was also a topic at the pre-match press conference.

The Medeama defender joined the team in place of Abdul Mumin of Spanish side Rayo Vallecano who asked to be excused from the two matches.

Second training session in Kumasi 👊🏾#BlackStars pic.twitter.com/xUB0D1vpBZ

— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) November 15, 2023

“I have watched games of Nurudeen and I have been impressed enough. He plays in a top team locally who are also playing in African club competitions and I think he deserves it.

“Also, it’s an inspiration to the local -based players and I think it shows we are always open to quality options.”