Otto Addo
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) relieved Otto Addo of his duties as head coach of the Black Stars, on Monday bringing his tenure to an abrupt end.
The decision follows Ghana’s disappointing performances in their recent pre–World Cup friendly matches in March, where the team suffered back-to-back defeats against Austria and Germany.
The results appear to have weighed heavily in the Association’s assessment of the team’s progress under Addo.
In a statement announcing the move, the GFA confirmed that it had “parted ways” with the former Borussia Dortmund assistant coach with immediate effect.
The Association expressed appreciation for his service, thanking him for his contribution to the national team and extending best wishes for his future endeavors.
Addo’s exit signals yet another shake-up within the technical structure of the Black Stars as the team looks to recalibrate ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The GFA indicated that details regarding the team’s new technical direction will be communicated in due course.
2-1 Loss
Germany secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Ghana in an international friendly at the MHP Arena on Monday, overcoming a spirited second-half response from the Black Stars.
Otto Addo made two notable adjustments to his starting lineup, handing a start to Benjamin Asare of Accra Hearts of Oak in place of Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
In defense, Kojo Oppong Peprah came in for Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, forming a three-man backline alongside Alexander Djiku and Jonas Adjetey. Caleb Yirenkyi and Derrick Kohn operated as wingbacks, while Thomas Partey partnered Kwasi Sibo in midfield. The attacking trio featured Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, and Prince Kwabena Adu.
Germany asserted early control, dominating possession and creating chances, with a goal from Florian Wirtz ruled out for offside. The breakthrough eventually came on the stroke of halftime when Kai Havertz converted from the penalty spot in the 45th minute. The decision followed a VAR review that penalized Adjetey for handball a minute earlier.
Ghana showed improvement after the break, particularly following the introduction of Elisah Owusu for Sibo, which added balance to the midfield.
The change paid off as Kohn delivered an assist for Issahaku, who had replaced Adu, to score the equalizer and revive Ghana’s hopes.
However, just as the match seemed headed for a draw, Germany struck late. Deniz Undav found the decisive goal in the 88th minute to seal the win.
Further changes saw Derrick Luckassen, Kamal Deen Sulemana, and Christopher Bonsu Baah introduced as Ghana pushed for a late response.
Despite the defeat, Ghana’s performance offered glimpses of promise, with several tactical adjustments and emerging talents providing positives for the technical team moving forward.
BY Wletsu Ransford
