Ghana captain Thomas Partey relies on experience for Mali match

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is relying on his experience to spur the Black Stars to beat Mali and Central African Republic (CAR) in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Partey, who will celebrate his 31st birthday on June 13, has been appointed as captain for the two matches, as captain Andre Ayew was not invited by coach Otto Addo.

Ghana will face Mali, who are recognised as the eighth-best team in Africa, in Bamako on Thursday evening Subsequently, the Black Stars will confront CAR in Kumasi on Monday, June 10.

These encounters hold immense importance for the Black Stars, who aim to secure another World Cup appearance, having qualified for four out of the previous five tournaments.

Ghana’s journey in the 2026 qualifiers has been uneven, marked by a victory over Madagascar followed by a defeat to Comoros, stressing the imperative for maximum points against Mali and CAR to reignite their aspirations.

Reflecting on the challenges posed by Mali, Partey said to ghanafa.org, “They [Mali] have shown that in their recent games as my Coach said. We have to do our best. We have to stop them, stop their best players and also concentrate on our way of playing and try to get the results we want.”

“Arsenal fans Club Mali” got the opportunity to meet Black Stars Captain 🇬🇭Thomas Partey 👋🏻 pic.twitter.com/7pgKSkSptj

— George Addo Jnr (@addojunr) June 6, 2024

The upcoming Mali fixture marks Partey’s first international appearance since October 2023, following a series of absences, including the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations early this year, due to injury.

His return is perceived as a significant morale booster for the team, with Partey expressing confidence in his capacity to make a meaningful contribution.

“I think I have been out for a while. I came back during the season and finished very well. I have played a lot of games for the national team and I know how we have to play,” asserted Partey.

“I know the system that the coach wants and I think with the experience I have, I will be able to get the team together and also to lead the young players who are coming in to be able to get in quite easy,” he added.

Partey has scored 13 goals in 47 appearances since his Ghana debut in May 2016.