Otto Addo, the coach of Ghana, emphasized that the Black Stars should prioritize defeating Sudan before addressing the important issue of galamsey in the country.
The 49-year-old made this statement during a press conference on Friday, revealing his squad for the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifying matches against Sudan.
Addo has announced his 25-player team for the upcoming matches against Sudan, scheduled for October 10 and October 14, 2024.
During a press conference regarding his choices, the ex-Borussia Dortmund midfielder was questioned about the current fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, which has sparked a three-day demonstration by the youth in the nation.
Otto Addo emphasizes the importance of Black Stars concentrating on Sudan despite the current anti-galamsey campaign.
Addo stated that illegal mining is a significant issue, however, he emphasized the importance of the Black Stars concentrating on defeating Sudan before addressing the matter.
“It’s [galamsey] is a very serious problem but we have to focus on our job first. You know, there are a lot of things that have also distracted me; maybe I’ve questioned myself as well, asking what I could have done better,” Addo said.
“If let’s say, I have an accident, there’s nothing I can do about it. But, you know, there are other distractions within the team, and for us, to be honest, it’s about focusing on Sudan and nothing else. After we win, then we can talk about every other topic.”
🚨 🇬🇭 Ghana national team coach, Otto Addo, on the illegal mining crisis (galamsey) plaguing the nation:
"It's a serious problem, but…"
Says the players and team MAY address that issue after their core business of beating Sudan on Oct 10.#StopGalamseyNow #FreeTheCitizens pic.twitter.com/X4ncrwwrtd
— Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) October 4, 2024
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