Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has pointed to the poor state of the playing surface at the Stade Olympique Idris Deby Itno as a major factor in Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Chad in N’Djamena on Thursday, during Matchday 7 of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

Ghana took the lead in the 17th minute when Jordan Ayew converted a precise cross from Mohammed Kudus.

However, the hosts equalised late on, with Celestine Ecua striking just two minutes before full-time to deny the Black Stars victory.

Speaking after the match, Addo lamented the condition of the pitch, saying it slowed down his side’s play and disrupted their tactical approach.

“It’s very difficult to play on this terrain when it’s not watered.

We can’t play fast, so it’s a disadvantage for us when the pitch is not wet,” he explained.

“The pitch was very slow for us, so it’s difficult to outplay the defenders.

But Chad did well in defending.”

The Black Stars will quickly shift focus to a crucial Matchday 8 encounter against Mali, scheduled for Monday, September 8 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Kick-off is at 19:00 GMT.

Despite the setback, Ghana remain top of Group I with 16 points, keeping their qualification hopes on track.