Former Technical Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Francis Oti Akenteng, has called on Ghanaians to rally behind Black Stars head coach Otto Addo as he prepares the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking in an interview, Oti Akenteng praised Addo’s contribution to the national team, describing him as a capable coach who deserves trust and patience.
“Otto Addo is our coach and we must support him. I believe the team will go far,” he said. “This is his second time qualifying the country for the World Cup, and I believe he can build on what he has done.”
He also reflected on Ghana’s past experiences with local coaches, suggesting that a lack of national support had hindered progress.
“If we had done that, Kwesi Appiah would have taken the team far. But we failed to support him, and Sudan came for him, now they are benefiting from him,” Oti Akenteng noted.
The veteran coach further commended Otto Addo’s assistant, Desmond Ofei, who recently obtained his UEFA Pro Licence, describing it as a positive step for Ghana’s coaching development.
“Fortunately, Desmond Ofei has obtained his UEFA Pro Licence. All he needs is encouragement. Let’s look at what Senegal did, they supported their own, and now they’re reaping the rewards. We should do the same,” he added.
Otto Addo will lead Ghana to the 2026 World Cup after guiding the Black Stars through a successful qualifying campaign. His side is expected to use upcoming international friendlies against Japan and South Korea to fine-tune preparations ahead of the tournament.
