World Cup 2026Q: Ghana-Chad clash today
For 24 years, the Black Stars of Ghana have maintained an unbeaten record in World Cup qualifiers on home soil, and the team is set to preserve that remarkable feat when they face Chad on Matchday 5 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The highly anticipated match will take place on Friday, March 21, at the Accra Sports Stadium. As Ghana continues its push for a place in the next World Cup, the team will be determined to extend its unblemished home record, which has stood the test of time.
A chance to move to the top of Group I
Ghana’s quest to maintain their winning home record coincides with their goal to ascend to the top of Group I in the qualifiers. Currently sitting in second place with nine points, the Black Stars are just one point behind group leaders Madagascar. A win over Chad, coupled with Comoros’ defeat to Mali, could propel Ghana to the top of the table. With a game in hand and three victories under their belt in the earlier stages of the qualifiers – against Madagascar, Mali, and the Central African Republic – Ghana is in a favorable position to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Chad’s struggles: A do-Or-die game for the stallions
Chad, on the other hand, finds themselves in a difficult position, sitting at the bottom of the group after four consecutive defeats. The Stallions have yet to earn a point in the qualification series and will see the game against Ghana as their best chance to turn things around. For Chad, this match is a critical opportunity to pick up their first point and possibly ignite a revival in their World Cup campaign.
Ghana’s fortitude at home: A record to defend
What makes Ghana’s task even more daunting for Chad is the Black Stars’ incredible home record. Since 2001, Ghana has not lost a World Cup qualifier at home, a remarkable statistic that has helped establish the team as a dominant force on their own turf. In this 24-year period, the Black Stars have secured 22 wins and seven draws from 29 home matches, scoring 59 goals and conceding just 13. This incredible record will serve as a massive psychological advantage as Ghana prepares to face Chad, with their eyes firmly set on maintaining their unbroken streak.
First-ever meeting between Ghana and Chad
The upcoming clash between Ghana and Chad will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides in any competition. The Black Stars will look to make a strong impression and capitalize on their experience in World Cup qualifiers to maintain their dominance. Although Chad is considered the underdog in this matchup, their motivation to earn their first point could make them a tough opponent, especially with the pressure mounting on both sides.
Redemption for Ghana: Rebuilding after a tough year
The Black Stars come into this match under intense scrutiny after a difficult year that saw them fail to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. For the first time in over two decades, Ghana will not be part of the continental showpiece, leading to widespread frustration among the fans. Under Otto Addo, Ghana’s performances in 2024 were disappointing, winning just two of their ten games while losing four and drawing four. This lackluster run was a sharp contrast to the team’s typically high standards and left Ghanaians upset with the team’s overall performance.
The crucial importance of the Chad game
Given the frustration felt by the nation, the game against Chad holds significant weight for the Black Stars. It’s an opportunity not only to boost their World Cup qualification prospects but also to win back the hearts of the Ghanaian fans. A commanding performance and a much-needed victory could help restore faith in the team, especially after missing out on the 2025 AFCON. Otto Addo’s men know that securing three points against Chad is essential for both their campaign and their reputation.
All Eyes on the Accra Sports Stadium
As the Black Stars of Ghana prepare to face Chad in what promises to be a thrilling encounter, they will aim to build on their formidable home record and move closer to a World Cup berth. With the support of their passionate fans and a clear goal in mind, Ghana’s men will be ready to face the Stallions and get their World Cup qualification campaign back on track. The stakes are high, and the spotlight is on Ghana to maintain their unbeaten run at home while rebuilding their relationship with the nation’s football-loving public.