Ghana vice-captain Thomas Partey is expected to miss the Black Stars’ second meeting with Somalia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Monday, November 16, as he attends the funeral of his late father.
The experienced midfielder is expected to be involved in funeral rites in Accra and Odumase, making him unavailable for Ghana’s Matchday Four fixture against the East African side.
Partey played the full 90 minutes in Ghana’s 2-0 victory over Somalia at the Essipong Sports Stadium on Thursday, delivering a commanding midfield display as the Black Stars secured their first win of the qualifying campaign under interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren.
The Al-Shabab midfielder was joined by his Black Stars teammates, members of the technical team and several figures from Ghana football at the funeral service as they gathered to support him and his family during the difficult period.
His expected absence represents a significant blow for Ghana, with Partey’s leadership, experience and control in midfield likely to be missed as the Black Stars seek back-to-back victories over Somalia.
Despite the setback, Björkegren will be hoping his squad can build on Thursday’s encouraging performance and secure another three points to strengthen Ghana’s bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Black Stars face Somalia again on Monday, with Partey expected to remain away from the squad while observing his family commitments.
