Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has named the starting line-up for the Black Stars’ encounter with The Gambia, with Benjamin Asare selected to start between the posts.
The Black Stars head into the game looking to produce a positive response and put in a stronger performance after their recent setback against Côte d’Ivoire.
Benjamin Asare will take responsibility in goal, with the goalkeeper expected to provide confidence and stability at the back.
The defensive line will be made up of Gideon Mensah, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Kojo Oppong Peprah.
Gideon Mensah brings experience and energy to the left side of the defence, while Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku are expected to provide strength and composure through the centre.
Kojo Oppong Peprah completes the defensive unit and will have an important role in dealing with The Gambia’s attacking threats.
In midfield, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kwasi Sibo, Caleb Yirenkyi and Ernest Nuamah have been selected.
Fatawu Issahaku is expected to offer creativity and attacking drive, while Kwasi Sibo will be tasked with helping the team maintain balance and control in the middle of the pitch.
Caleb Yirenkyi also starts in midfield, providing another option for ball progression and supporting both the defensive and attacking phases.
Ernest Nuamah adds pace and attacking movement to the midfield area and could play an important role when Ghana moves forward.
The attacking responsibility will be shared by Brandon Thomas-Asante and Felix Afena-Gyan.
Thomas-Asante will be expected to lead the line and provide a physical presence in the final third, while Afena-Gyan will look to use his movement and pace to create opportunities.
The selection gives Ghana a blend of experience and younger players as the team seeks to improve its performance and secure an important result.
The Black Stars will need to remain organised, particularly when The Gambia has possession, while making good use of their opportunities in the attacking third.
The midfield will also be crucial, with Ghana expected to compete strongly for possession and prevent The Gambia from controlling the tempo of the match.
For the forwards, the key task will be to convert chances when they come and put pressure on the Gambian defence.
The starting line-up also gives Queiroz several players capable of changing the pace of the game through speed, movement and direct attacking play.
Ghana’s defensive organisation will equally come under close attention, with the back four expected to maintain their shape and provide protection for Asare.
The Black Stars will be hoping the combination of defensive stability, midfield energy and attacking pace can produce the desired outcome.
The match provides another opportunity for the players to demonstrate their quality and respond on the pitch after the team’s recent results.
With the starting line-up now confirmed, attention turns to the players to execute the coach’s plans and deliver a disciplined performance against The Gambia.
