Kirin Cup: “Black Stars achieved their purpose despite defeats”- Henry Asante Twum

Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has defended the Black Stars’ recent international performances, insisting that the objectives behind the November friendlies against Japan and South Korea were successfully met — despite back-to-back defeats.

As part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ghana faced Japan in the Kirin Cup last Friday, suffering a 2-0 loss at the Toyota Stadium. The team then wrapped up the window with a 1-0 defeat to South Korea at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

Speaking to Asempa FM, Asante Twum emphasized that the matches were never solely about results.

“We had to deal with injuries, and we lost against Japan and South Korea, but the purpose for which these friendlies were played has been achieved,” he said.

The Black Stars were without several key players during the tour, giving fringe and emerging talents a chance to stake their claim ahead of the World Cup.

Ghana will regroup in March 2026 to continue preparations for the tournament, with head coach Otto Addo expected to

refine his squad and tactical approach. The team will discover its group-stage opponents on December 5, 2025, when the official World Cup draw takes place in Washington, DC.