By: Kwame Bediako
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has seized the opportunity to give new players a chance to shine in the Unity Cup, selecting five debutants in his squad for the tournament. The Ghana Black Stars coach believes this is the ideal time to assess the talents of players who have been on his radar for months, with the aim of building a strong and competitive team.
Addo’s squad selection has seen established players like Kamaldeen Sulemana, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus left out due to minor knocks and injury setbacks. However, the coach is confident that the new faces will bring fresh energy and competition to the team. “Team building is a process that takes time, and it’s not something that happens overnight. This is a great opportunity to give some of our young players a chance to prove themselves”; Addo told the Ghana FA.
The Unity Cup provides the perfect platform for Addo to evaluate his young players and identify those who can become key parts of his team going forward. With recent wins against Chad and Madagascar keeping Ghana atop the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers log, Addo is looking to build on this momentum and create a strong team dynamic. “We’re looking beyond individuals and focusing on building a strong team,” he added.
Ghana’s first match in the Unity Cup is against Nigeria at the GTech Community Stadium in West London on Wednesday, May 28. The winner will progress to the final on Saturday, May 31, 2025. Addo is optimistic about the team’s chances, stating that the Unity Cup comes at a crucial time for the team, and they want to make the most of it.
The Black Stars’ participation in the Unity Cup is a vital step in their preparations for future competitions. With Addo’s guidance, the team is expected to showcase their skills and talent, providing a glimpse into the future of Ghanaian football.
