Black Stars head coach Otto Addo says he is baffled by the conversations around Benjamin Asare following Ghana’s qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite his role in helping the Black Stars book a place for the global tournament, fans are divided over the potential of the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper heading into the World Cup.
While some have argued Asare is good enough to be Ghana’s first choice, many also argue the goalkeeping department needs to be beefed up ahead next year’s competition.
However, Addo says he does not ‘understand’ why the goalkeeper’s performances is the topic for discussion just days after the qualification.
“He trained well [when he came in]. He just had three days and he was so good then I said it was enough for me to give him a chance,” the head coach told Joy Sports.
“These kind of decisions are always on the edge because there are other goalkeepers who are also doing well, and who also did well at the club side. Sometimes, it’s just little margins.
“When we gave him the chance, he proved that he is the No.1 and we are very happy for him.
“He’s proved that he’s the number one.”
— Otto Addo on Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/ImlR20xhWy
— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) October 15, 2025
“It’s normal that players will be criticize the same as myself but I think we should really make it a sense. I don’t think we have conceded too many goals.
“For me, I don’t understand this discussion [about Benjamin Asare] especially if the team did well and we qualified.”
Asare conceded just one goal in six World Cup qualifiers, coming in the 1-1 draw against Chad back in October.
About the Author
