Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has cited the poor condition of the playing surface at Stade Olympique Idris Deby Itno as a key factor in Ghana’s 1-1 draw against Chad on Thursday in N’Djamena, during Matchday 7 of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Jordan Ayew had put Ghana ahead in the 17th minute, finishing off a precise cross from Mohammed Kudus.
But the hosts struck back late through Celestine Ecua, snatching a point for Chad with just two minutes remaining.
Reflecting on the performance, Addo said the state of the pitch disrupted their game plan.
“It’s very difficult to play on this terrain when it’s not watered. We can’t play fast, so it’s a disadvantage for us when the pitch is not wet,” he said.
“The pitch was very slow for us, so it’s difficult to outplay the defenders, but Chad did well in defending,” Addo added.
The Black Stars will have little time to regroup ahead of a crucial Matchday 8 clash, hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
Despite the setback, Ghana remain top of Group I with 16 points.
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