Otto Addo Unfazed by Injury Setbacks as Black Stars Prepare for Austria Clash

Otto Addo has moved to calm concerns over the absence of key attackers Iñaki Williams and Brandon Thomas-Asante ahead of Ghana’s international friendly against Austria.

Both forwards have been ruled out due to injury, prompting adjustments within the Black Stars squad. However, Addo remains optimistic, viewing the situation as an opportunity for others to step up.

“If somebody gets injured, it’s always not a good situation. I think Iñaki had a good form, and Brandon came back from his injury. Before that, he also scored a lot of goals. So, yeah, I’m really sorry for them. But it will be a good possibility also for the others to show themselves. I’m very, very happy that the team seems to be in good shape,” he said during his pre-match press conference.

The Ghana coach confirmed that Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer has been drafted in as a replacement and has already made a positive impression in camp.

“Ransford Königsdörffer came to replace them and he’s been good. I think we have to focus on what is ahead of us. There’s no time and there’s no need to look behind who could be here and who did not.”

Addo emphasized the need for focus, noting that injuries are part of the game and that the squad must concentrate on immediate objectives while hoping for a full-strength team ahead of the World Cup.

“A lot of other players are also injured, and I hope that everybody will be ready, at least, for the World Cup.”

Ghana will take on Austria at the Ernst Happel Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 17:00 GMT, as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.