Otto Addo Confident Ahead of Tough Japan Test in Kirin Cup

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo says his side is anticipating a tough contest against Japan but remains confident that Ghana can secure victory when the two teams meet in the 2025 Kirin Cup.

The match, scheduled for Friday, November 14, at the Toyota Stadium in Aichi, will kick off at 10:20 a.m. GMT and serves as part of Ghana’s ongoing preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, the Ghana coach acknowledged the strength of the Japanese side but expressed belief in the quality and resilience of his squad, despite the absence of several key players.

“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,” Otto Addo 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.”

Addo’s comments come as the Black Stars continue their build-up to next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where they will be making their fifth appearance at the global showpiece.

Following the clash with Japan, Ghana will travel to Seoul to face South Korea on Tuesday, November 18, in the final game of their Asia tour.

Both friendlies are expected to provide Otto Addo and his technical team with valuable insight into the team’s progress and tactical readiness ahead of the tournament.