Ghana’s goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has shed light on the often-overlooked process behind the Black Stars’ matchday selection, revealing that performance on the field is just one part of the equation.
Speaking exclusively on Original TV/FM’s “Kaninja on Sports Update” Tuesday edition, Asare disclosed that the national team’s technical setup involves not just coaches but also a team psychologist who evaluates players before final selections are made for any competitive fixture.
“Matchday selection for the Black Stars is not only based on merit or what you show in training,” Asare explained. “The team psychologist assesses you—both mentally and physically—before you’re told whether you’re in the matchday squad.”
The Accra Hearts of Oak shot-stopper, who recently manned the post during Ghana’s successful qualification campaign, emphasized the importance of mental readiness at the international level. According to him, the psychologist’s input ensures that only players in the right frame of mind are chosen for high-pressure encounters.
“Sometimes, a player can be doing well physically, but if mentally he’s not ready, it can affect the team’s performance,” Asare added. “That’s why the psychologist plays a crucial role in the final decision.”
Asare’s revelation highlights a growing trend in modern football—where sports psychology and mental health management have become essential components of elite performance.
The Black Stars’ technical team, underlining this holistic approach, continues to blend tactical preparation with psychological conditioning as Ghana pushes to build a mentally resilient squad for upcoming international assignments.
