Chris Hughton, the Head Coach of the Black Stars, is set to reveal his squad for the decisive Group E match in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against the Central African Republic this week.
The lineup for this critical game is expected to heavily feature players who were part of the scoreless draw against Madagascar in Antananarivo earlier this year in June.
Prominent names like Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Alidu Seidu, Joseph Paintsil, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Osman Bukari, Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Amartey, and more are anticipated to be part of the squad.
Even though he has been without a club since the conclusion of the previous season, team captain Andre Ayew is projected to be included in the roster for this significant clash.
Baba Rahman, Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Gideon Mensah, and Alexander Djiku are poised to return to the squad after missing the previous game due to injuries. However, Tariq Lamptey and Mohammed are unlikely to be included despite their recovery from respective injuries.
Injuries will rule out Majeed Ashimeru and Joseph Wollacott from the game. There is also uncertainty about Abdul Samed Salis due to an ankle sprain he sustained during Lens’ 3-1 loss to PSG over the weekend, which caused him to be substituted at halftime.
Baba Iddrisu, who has been absent from the team since September 2022, is expected to make his comeback, earning his first call-up under Chris Hughton.
Reports suggest that Jonathan Sowah has received a call-up for the game. Sowah’s outstanding performance, marked by 12 goals in 20 matches, propelled Medeama to their inaugural betPawa Premier League title in the previous season.
The much-anticipated match against the Central African Republic is scheduled for Thursday, September 7, at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Ghana’s road to the 2023 African Cup of Nations hinges on either a win or a draw to secure their place in the tournament scheduled to take place in Cote D’Ivoire in January and February of the following year.
With five group games played, the Black Stars currently lead Group E with 9 points. Following closely, Angola occupies the second spot with 8 points, the Central African Republic stands at third with 7 points, and Madagascar holds the bottom position with 2 points.
