Sports Minister Kofi Adams has praised the Black Stars for heeding the advice of government and technical handlers ahead of their emphatic 5–0 win over the Central African Republic in the World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, the Minister said the players “listened and gave it their best,” adding that their attitude showed a renewed sense of commitment and belief.

“Well, I give thanks to God for what it is that he’s done for us as a country,” Kofi Adams said. “I also know that the boys put in their best. They listened to their advice, they listened to our engagement.”

The Black Stars’ dominant win in Morocco puts them just one point away from qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The result, powered by four second-half goals, cements Ghana’s three-point lead at the top of Group I.

Mr Adams revealed that before the crucial game, he had urged the players to block out negative commentary and focus on their potential.

Read also: World Cup 2026Q: Black Stars edge closer to qualification with 5-0 win over CAR

“I told them clearly that they were the best you could find anywhere,” he said.

“They should see themselves as such, that once you’ve been selected by the coach to be part of the team, don’t listen to any other commentary that will bring you down.”

He added that criticism should instead serve as motivation for the players to prove their worth on the field.

“That commentary that you hear out there should rather motivate you to prove those who think you are not qualified, that you are qualified,” the Minister stressed.

Kofi Adams’ comments come at a time when public scrutiny of the Black Stars has been intense following inconsistent performances in earlier matches.

But the thumping win over the Central African Republic has reignited confidence in the team as they close in on qualification for the 2026 World Cup.