Kirin Cup 2025: Ghana coach Otto Addo braces for tough Japan challenge

Ghana will test their strength for the first time since qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they take on Japan in the 2025 Kirin Cup.

The Black Stars will clash with the Samurai Blue at the Toyota Stadium on Friday, November 14, in the Kirin Cup, with kick-off set for 10:20 a.m.

Ghana has had a rollercoaster season in qualifiers, having missed the journey to the next Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco before recovering to top Group I to book a spot in the next global football showpiece to be co-hosted by Canada, USA and Mexico.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Ghana head coach, Otto Addo admits that Japan has a lot of qualities which must not be underestimated.

“We are very, very pleased to be here. This is not our first time; we know the Japanese Federation has a very, very strong team,” he told the Ghana FA.

“I think so far everything went well with the organisation and so on, and we are looking forward to that match.It will be difficult for us, but I know we also have the strength to beat Japan.

“We started very well, and like I said, it’s going to be a tight match, and I’m looking forward to it.

“We have a team, I think, on bad days, we can struggle, but on good days, we can beat everyone. We showed at the last World Cup, at least also that we were close to beating Portugal, we beat South Korea, so I think we have a competitive team and we’re looking forward also to make the next step.”

The Black Stars will next travel to Seoul to face South Korea on Tuesday, November 18.

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