2025 AFCON Qualifiers: We need to be more compact in defense against Angola - Ghana coach Otto Addo

Ghana coach Otto Addo is poised to fix defensive woes ahead of their game against Angola in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Black Stars is set to kick off their campaign with a home match against Angola on Thursday, September 5, at 16:00 GMT. Following this, the team will travel to Berkane, Morocco for their second Group F game against Niger on September 9.

Ghana commenced preparation for the two crucial games on Monday at the Accra Sports and have since arrived in Kumasi to finalize preparations.

The West Africa powerhouse conceded in their last two games against Mali and Central Africa Republic (CAR) in June during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In order not to concede against Angola, the Black Stars tactician says his outfit must be more compact in defense.

“The most important thing is that we don’t have to underrate our opponent. Angola is a very strong team. They have players playing in La Liga, England (Championship), Portugal, France and others so they are strong. We have to be really wise not to underrate them” he said.

He continued, “Defensively, we need to be more compact not to concede goals” he said.

Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew and Auxerre’s midfielder Elisha Owusu are the only players yet to report to Black Stars camp.

The Black Stars will wrap up preparation for the much-anticipated game at the Baba Yara Stadium on Wednesday evening.