Ghana’s Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, has described Black Stars head coach Otto Addo as “lucky” despite the team’s impressive standing in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, the minister, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, said that while Otto Addo has delivered positive results, there remain serious concerns about his tactical decisions and overall performance.
“He Has Been Lucky, but There Are Still Concerns”
In the interview hosted by Evans Mensah, Kofi Adams praised the coach for taking Ghana within one point of qualification but admitted that some of Addo’s in game choices have been questionable.
“Well, he has been lucky, but there are still concerns,” he said.
He explained that the coach himself has acknowledged moments where he could have made better substitutions or tactical calls.
“Most times when we meet, he will admit, maybe I should have done a substitution, or I should have urged them on, or I should have fielded this person to play this role,” Mr Adams noted.
“And so there are concerns. But I must say he’s been lucky. It doesn’t mean he shouldn’t improve.”
“I’m Not Saying He’s Incompetent”
The minister was quick to clarify that his criticism does not amount to questioning Otto Addo’s competence as a coach.
“I can’t say that he’s totally incompetent. I’m not a coach. I’m only a minister who loves the game and analyses it,” he said.
“If I had been a coach before, others could describe whether he’s competent or not, but I’m not a coach, so I won’t say so. But I am not satisfied; that’s all I’m seeking to say.”
Mr. Adams admitted that watching the Black Stars has been an emotionally tense experience for him, even during matches that Ghana wins.
“Yes, he’s qualified, but I’ve sat on hooks and nails during games. I’ve had to get up to use the washroom a number of times by force,” he joked, highlighting the stress that comes with being a passionate fan and minister.
“Too Early to Say If He’s the Right Man”
When asked directly whether Otto Addo is the right man to lead Ghana to the World Cup, the minister declined to make a definitive statement.
“I can’t answer that question now. If I do, I might create divisions, some people want him, others don’t,” he said.
“We still have matches to play, and it’s too early to make that judgment.”
Mr. Adams emphasized that the authority to retain or replace the coach does not rest with the Sports Ministry alone.
“The minister doesn’t take those decisions. The Ghana Football Association manages the national team. The ministry will receive and analyse reports, but decisions like retaining or dismissing the coach are taken in consultation with the GFA.”
Ghana Close to World Cup Qualification
The Black Stars currently sit just one point away from qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following their emphatic 5–0 victory over the Central African Republic in Morocco. The win solidified Ghana’s lead at the top of Group I, driven by four second half goals that showcased the team’s attacking strength.
While acknowledging the progress made, Kofi Adams maintained that the team and its coach must continue to improve.
“There are decisions to be made every day, from coaching to nutrition and physiotherapy,” he said. “Otto Addo has been lucky, yes, but there’s always room for improvement.”
Source: Adapted from JoyNews interview on PM Express. Edited and rewritten by NewsGhOnline for clarity and context.
