Ghana’s trip to Asia for the 2025 Kirin Cup ended with two painful defeats and no goals scored. The 2-0 loss to Japan and the 1-0 defeat to South Korea exposed familiar weaknesses but also revealed a few promising signs for the Black Stars. With one international window left before the World Cup, these matches provide important clues about the decisions Otto Addo must make. Here are seven key lessons from the two games.
- Otto Addo must address Ghana’s worrying results
Ghana’s performances in the Kirin Cup only add to a growing concern: the team is not winning enough. Under Otto Addo, the Black Stars have played 32 matches, winning 13 and losing 11. The numbers show a pattern of inconsistency, and the latest defeats to Japan and South Korea highlight the issue again. Results affect belief, and Ghana must find a way to build confidence before the World Cup.
- Sulemana’s time may be up
Kamaldeen Sulemana has now spent five years in the national team without producing the consistent impact expected of him. His pace is elite, but his decision-making continues to break down promising attacks. Despite working under different coaches and systems, his output has not improved. With the World Cup approaching, Ghana must ask: what does he offer the team today?
- Seidu Alidu’s right wing-back role remains a dilemma
Seidu Alidu is reliable defensively but struggles to contribute in attack. His hesitation in key moments—such as failing to make a simple cut-back to Prince Adu Kwabena—shows that his offensive instincts are still lacking. At the highest level, every second matters, and Ghana cannot afford wastefulness. Without a ready-made alternative, the technical team faces a tough decision.
- Baba Rahman may need to be recalled
The left-back role has been unstable since Baba Rahman stepped away from the team two years ago. Several players have rotated through the position, yet none have fully convinced. With Ghana looking for stability before the World Cup, it may be time to consider a conversation with Baba Rahman—if he is willing to return.
- Yirenkyi’s standout audition
Caleb Yirenkyi impressed in midfield with his calmness, control and ability to escape pressure. His passing kept the team moving, and he frequently helped teammates out of trouble. Apart from conceding a penalty, he delivered a strong audition for a long-term role in Ghana’s midfield.
- Prince Adu Kwabena deserves deeper consideration
Prince Adu Kwabena’s movements, positioning and sharpness show he has something different to offer in attack. His ability to read spaces and his confidence around the box make him one of the few bright sparks in Ghana’s forward line. With Ghana struggling for goals in the Kirin Cup, Otto Addo must seriously assess whether he fits into the final World Cup squad.
- Ghana must improve chance creation
Across both matches, Ghana created very few meaningful chances. The team struggled to progress the ball through the lines, and the final third lacked urgency and cohesion. Without consistent build-up play and better decision-making near goal, the team will find it difficult to compete at the World Cup. Improving creativity must be a top priority.
