Winfried Schäfer is the Technical Advisor of the Black Stars
New Black Stars Technical Advisor, Winfried Schäfer, in a heartfelt appeal, has called on fans to put aside their disappointment and rally behind the team, urging unity and support in the face of adversity.
The Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), coupled with their successive group stage exits in the 2022 and 2024 AFCON, has led to a decline in fan enthusiasm.
Nonetheless, during his first interview with the Ghana Football Association (GFA), he acknowledged the Black Stars’ recent struggles but urged Ghanaians to rally behind the team as they seek a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
“I know we are not very happy because the team didn’t make it to the Africa Cup of Nations, but please give us the support. Stay behind us. You are our 12th man, and we can do it,” he said.
Schäfer also called on the players to enhance their commitment and expressed his eagerness to give the players his full backing.
“I want to talk to the players. I want to help the staff. I want to help the coach so that we come back stronger, believe me. But for this, we have to work very hard. The players have to feel proud playing for Ghana. Players outside of Ghana or the local players have to feel hungry for a call-up to play for Ghana,” he further stated.
The Black Stars will resume their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign on Friday, March 21, 2025, when they host Chad. The team currently sits second in Group I, level on points with leaders Comoros, with nine points from four matches.
Meanwhile watch as Ghanaians debate the appointment of Jordan Ayew as Black Stars below:
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