“Ups and downs at clubs won’t affect performance of Ghana vs Madagascar” – Joseph Paintsil

Joseph Paintsil, the Ghanaian forward, remains confident that the challenges and successes experienced by Black Stars players at their respective clubs during the recently concluded 2022/23 football season will not hinder their performance in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Madagascar.

Under the guidance of Chris Hughton, the team is preparing to face the Bereas at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium in Antananarivo, Madagascar on June 18, marking round five of next year’s AFCON qualifiers.

Despite Paintsil’s impressive season with Genk in the Belgium Jupiler Pro League, narrowly missing out on the title on the final day to Royal Antwerp, he remains optimistic that the team is focused on the Madagascar game and has moved past any setbacks.

“As you can see, we still have belief, teamwork, commitment, and everything. Even though there have been ups and downs at their clubs, it doesn’t really affect them in the national team,” he stated confidently during a press conference in Accra after their second training session on Tuesday.

He added, “I believe every player invited here is highly motivated for the clash between Ghana and Madagascar.”

A draw is all that is needed for Chris Hughton’s side to secure their place in the tournament, which will be held in Ivory Coast. The Black Stars currently lead Group E with 8 points, having secured two wins and two draws in their four group games.