According to former Ghanaian international John Paintsil, Mali won’t pose a challenge to Ghana in the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers in 2026.
The Black Stars were placed in Group G together with Mali, Comoros, Chad, Madagascar, and the Central African Republic as part of the qualification process for the upcoming edition of the world championship.
There have been several responses to the draw, with Mali anticipated to be Ghana’s biggest obstacle in the group.
But in a recent interview, Paintsil described Ghana’s group as “not difficult, but tricky.”
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“Countries paired against Ghana in the group have an upper hand because they have nothing to lose playing us. If we beat them, it’s no use, but if they beat us, it’s big news and that tells you it’s a tricky group,” he told Graphic Sports.
“Mali is the most stubborn football country in Africa because they can upset you anytime.”
Despite recognising the threat of Mali, the former Premier League player believes they are no more a strong force.
“It was during 2012 when Mali was in top form,” he continued.
“I thought they could build on their form but looking at them now, I don’t think they are strong like before.”
There is still a long way to go before the World Cup qualifiers begin in 2026, but Ghana’s journey to the Mundial starts in November 2023.
