Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has named a 24-man squad for the Black Stars' opening Group C fixtures against Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The squad includes returning players Mohammed Kudus, Alexander Djiku, Jan Gyamerah, Nathaniel Adjei, Ibrahim Sulemana, and Ibrahim Osman, who missed Ghana's 2026 World Cup campaign. New York Red Bulls midfielder Ronald Donkor has earned his first Black Stars call-up after impressing in Major League Soccer.
Queiroz emphasized that players must be in competitive action and physically ready to represent the Black Stars. He stated that his technical team had closely monitored the players before making selections. The coach highlighted that the technical staff considered the limitations or periods of inactivity affecting some players. Queiroz stressed that, except in exceptional circumstances, players should be in competitive action, physically prepared, and fully ready to play for the national team.
Notably, Tottenham midfielder Mohammed Kudus has withdrawn from the squad, while Prince Adu Kwabena is expected to miss the opening games due to a head injury. The Black Stars will begin their qualifying campaign with a trip to Bouaké, where they face Côte d'Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix on 24 September. Ghana will then return home to host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 27 September.
Queiroz will be hoping for a positive start as Ghana seeks to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON after missing the 2025 tournament in Morocco. The coach aims to build a strong team for the 2030 World Cup while focusing on the current qualifiers. The Black Stars will conclude the international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October.
Several notable players are absent from the squad, including Thomas Partey, Brandon-Thomas Asante, Abdul Mumin, Alidu Seidu, Jonas Adjetey, and Elisha Owusu. Queiroz's selection criteria have been based on the players' current form and readiness to represent the national team. The coach's approach has been to ensure that only the best-prepared players are selected for the Black Stars.
The return of key players such as Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku is expected to boost the team's chances in the qualifiers. The inclusion of new players like Ronald Donkor adds depth and competition to the squad. Queiroz's experience and tactical acumen will be crucial in guiding the team through the qualifiers and beyond.
The 2027 AFCON qualifiers pose a significant challenge for Ghana, but Queiroz is optimistic about the team's prospects. With a well-prepared squad and a clear strategy, the Black Stars aim to make a strong impression in the qualifiers and ultimately secure a spot in the 2027 AFCON.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz emphasizes the importance of players being in competitive action and physically ready for the national team.
- Ghana faces Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers on 24 and 27 September, respectively.
- Mohammed Kudus has withdrawn from the squad, while Prince Adu Kwabena is expected to miss the opening games due to injury.
