Ghana sack head coach ahead of World Cup

Ghana Football Association have dismissed head coach Otto Addo just over two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The federation confirmed the decision on Tuesday, announcing the immediate termination of the 50-year-old’s contract following a run of poor results in recent international friendlies.

“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) have parted ways with the Head Coach of the senior men’s national team (Black Stars), Otto Addo effective immediately,” the statement read.

Poor results force decision

The move comes after consecutive defeats, including a 2-1 loss to Germany and a heavy 5-1 defeat in Austria, results that effectively sealed Addo’s fate.

Despite returning for a second spell in March 2024, the former Borussia Dortmund player struggled to deliver consistency. Ghana also failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a major setback given the quality within the squad.

Across both stints, Addo recorded eight wins and nine defeats in 22 matches, a return widely viewed as below the federation’s expectations.

World Cup pressure mounts

His departure leaves Ghana facing a critical transition period ahead of the tournament in North America.

The Black Stars have been drawn in a difficult group alongside England, Croatia and Panama, increasing the urgency around appointing a new coach.

With limited preparation time remaining, the federation must now move quickly to stabilise the team and restore confidence before the competition begins.