0
0 In the midst of Ghana’s tumultuous journey in major tournaments, Jordan Ayew has emerged as a shining light, illuminating the path forward for the Black Stars.
Despite being at the receiving end of scathing criticism from Ghanaians few years ago, with some even calling for his expulsion from the team, Ayew has silenced his detractors with a string of impressive performances in recent months.
The 2025 AFCON qualifying stage was a disaster for Ghana, as they failed to qualify for the tournament for the first time in 20 years.
However, Ayew was one of the few bright sparks in an otherwise dismal campaign, scoring one of Ghana’s only three goals in six qualifying matches.
As Ghana prepares for their crucial World Cup qualifiers after the AFCON disaster, 3Sports assesses how Jordan Ayew could map Ghana to World Cup qualification.
1. His blistering form in the World Cup qualifiers
In the World Cup qualifiers, Ayew has been a different beast altogether. The Leicester City man has been in scintillating form, notching four goals to become the second-top scorer in the qualifying stage.
His goal-scoring prowess has been the catalyst for Ghana’s resurgence, and his dying embers goal to hand Ghana all the three points in Bamako against Mali where everything was going against Ghana cement his status as one of the most important players for the nation.
Ayew’s impressive hat-trick against the Central African Republic, which handed Ghana a thrilling 4-3 victory at the Kumasi Baba Yara Sports Stadium, was a testament to his clinical finishing and predatory instincts.
Out Ghana’s seven goals in the World Cup qualifying round, Jordan scored four of them representing 57% of the total goals scored.
2. His vast experience in Black Stars colors
Jordan Ayew’s vast experience in the Black Stars jersey is a treasure trove of knowledge and expertise that will be crucial in Ghana’s bid to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. As one of the most experienced players in the current squad, Ayew’s influence extends beyond his on-field performances, as he has been a steady presence in the team for over a decade.
With a career spanning over 13 years, Ayew has been a loyal servant to the Black Stars, having made his debut in 2010. His longevity and dedication have earned him a place among the longest-serving members of the current squad. Throughout his tenure, Ayew has navigated the highs and lows of international football, accumulating invaluable experience that will be vital in guiding his teammates through the challenges of World Cup qualification.
3. The Captaincy duty
As the newly appointed captain of the Black Stars in the abscense of his senior brother, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew has been entrusted with the weighty responsibility of leading his teammates through the treacherous waters of World Cup qualification. This added burden will test Ayew’s leadership mettle, but he is well-equipped to rise to the challenge.
As captain, Ayew will be expected to lead by example, demonstrating the qualities of a true leader: courage, vision, and tactical acumen. His experience and maturity will be invaluable assets in guiding his teammates through the pressures and challenges of international football.
Drawing inspiration from his brother Andre Ayew, who famously guided Ghana to 2009 U-20 World Cup glory, Jordan will be motivated to replicate his brother’s success. The Ayew brothers have always shared a special bond, and Jordan will be driven to make his brother proud by leading the Black Stars to World Cup qualification.
4. His numbers under Otto Addo
Since Otto Addo’s reappointment as the head coach of the Black Stars, Jordan Ayew has emerged as the team’s talisman, demonstrating a clear understanding of the coach’s tactical nuances. Ayew’s impressive form under Addo has been a hallmark of their successful partnership, with the forward establishing himself as the most productive and prolific player in the team.
Ayew’s statistics under Addo are staggering, with seven goals in ten matches, the highest among any player. This impressive tally accounts for a remarkable 64% of the team’s goals under Addo’s second stint, highlighting Ayew’s importance to the coach’s system.
Ayew’s ability to consistently deliver under Addo’s tutelage is a testament to their strong working relationship and the forward’s adaptability to the coach’s tactical approach.
The Black Stars are on the cusp of a crucial juncture in their World Cup qualification campaign, with two pivotal matches looming on the horizon.
On Friday, Ghana will host Chad at the iconic Baba Yara Sports Stadium, before embarking on a challenging trip to Morocco to face Madagascar on Monday.
Currently sitting in third place in Group I, the Black Stars are well aware that a convincing victory on Friday could propel them to the top of the standings.
The stakes are high, and the Ghanaian faithful will be expecting a resounding win against Chad to set the tone for the remainder of the qualification campaign.
The post The Old Guard: How Jordan Ayew could inspire Ghana’s World Cup hopes first appeared on 3News.
