Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo has revealed the emotional story behind his call-up to the Black Stars for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting he initially believed his dream had slipped away after being left out of Otto Addo’s original squad.
The 28-year-old, who has since earned four appearances for Ghana at the Mundial, said Otto Addo had contacted him before the squad announcement to explain that he had been closely monitored after an impressive display against Villarreal.
“Three days before the World Cup, Coach Otto Addo called me and told me that I had been on the national team’s radar for quite some time. He said they had watched me play against Villarreal, where I had a very good game. He also told me the squad list would be announced within a week and that my name might or might not be included.”
Although Sibo’s name was absent from the initial list, he remained calm despite the disappointment around him.
“When the squad was announced, my name wasn’t on the list. My friends and my management were disappointed, but I told them to stay calm.”
His fortunes changed only days later when the Ghana Football Association contacted him with the news every player dreams of hearing.
“A few days later, I woke up to several missed calls from the Football Association. When I returned the call, they told me the coach wanted me to report to camp. I was overjoyed, and when I informed my club, everyone there was even happier than I was.”
Sibo went on to feature four times for the Black Stars at the World Cup and is now seeking a new challenge after leaving Real Oviedo, where he made 27 appearances before his contract expired following the club’s relegation.