Benjamin Asare: The Hearts of Oak goalie who thrived in Ghana’s post due to Jordan Ayew’s inspirational leadership

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew played a crucial role in motivating goalkeeper Benjamin Asare ahead of the Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

The Hearts of Oak shot-stopper, who earned his first call-up to the national team, credited Ayew’s support for boosting his confidence.

“Special thanks to Jordan Ayew—he motivated me all the time and told me that, despite being a local player, I can do this,” Asare revealed. His words of encouragement came at a vital moment, as the 32-year-old goalkeeper stepped into the squad during a decisive period.

Ghana dominated both matches, securing six points with an impressive eight goals scored, further validating Asare’s inclusion. His strong form for Hearts of Oak, where he has kept 12 clean sheets in 18 appearances, made him a standout candidate for selection.

Asare also highlighted the warm reception from the team, which helped him settle in quickly. “As soon as I entered camp, everyone was happy to welcome me, which gave me more motivation to work hard,” he shared.

With his debut experience and Ayew’s backing, Asare has proven that talent from the Ghana Premier League can thrive at the highest level. His journey is a testament to the growing belief in local players making a significant impact on the national team.