Interim coach of the Black Stars, Otto Addo, has again emphasized the importance of attacker Jordan Ayew to his team as Ghana prepares for the second leg encounter of the playoff against Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Crystal Palace was booed by fans in Kumasi despite putting up a decent performance in the first leg at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Ahead of the game tonight, Otto Addo explains the former Aston Villa player’s defensive contribution is worth much for his team.
“Whether Jordan stays on the pitch or comes off the pitch, the decision is mine. If you have something to say, say it to me. I know in Africa that people acknowledge more offensive action but if you see what Jordan did defensively, this has much worth,” said Otto Addo at Monday’s pre-match confereence.
“He’s a leader. He’s the only person on this team who has been to the World Cup before so we really need him,” he added.
The Black Stars are hoping to make a return to the World Cup after missing the 2018 edition in Russia four years ago.
However, they have the Super Eagles to beat at the 60,000 capacity Moshood Abiola stadium in Abuja.
Ghana touched down in Abuja on Monday afternoon before training later in the day for the crucial clash this evening at exactly 5pm Ghana Time.
![FIFA referee Raphael Claus officiated in the USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina match [Francois Nel/Getty Images via AFP]](https://sportsworldghana.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AFP__20260702__2284250723__v1__HighRes__UsaVBosniaAndHerzegovinaRoundOf32FifaWorldCu-1783386519-768x512.webp)
