Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, are set to make significant changes to their starting lineup for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Gambia. The match, scheduled for September 29, 2026, at the Accra Sports Stadium, has become a must-win fixture for the team. Ghana currently sits at the bottom of Group C with zero points, following a disappointing loss to Côte d'Ivoire in their opening qualifier.
The expected changes are a result of the team's shambolic display against Côte d'Ivoire, where several key players underperformed. Midfielder Kwasi Sibo, who struggled to protect Ghana's defense, is among those tipped to lose his place in the starting lineup. In the Côte d'Ivoire game, Sibo managed only 38 touches and failed to win a single duel. Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi is also under scrutiny after conceding a long-range goal.
Right-back Christopher Bonsu Baah, who replaced the injured Marvin Senaya, had a difficult game against Côte d'Ivoire's Yan Diomande and may be dropped. Fatawu Issahaku's place on the left wing has also come under question after he conceded a penalty and lost the ball 11 times. Reports suggest that Thomas-Asante could be shifted to the wing, with Felix Afena-Gyan potentially leading the attack.
The potential changes have been influenced by growing scrutiny of coach Carlos Queiroz's tactics and results. The team's performance has led to increased pressure on Queiroz, with some questioning his strategies. Ahead of the qualifiers, there were talks of potential new faces in the squad, including Barcelona's Bisiwu and Donkor.
The Gambia fixture is being treated as a must-win occasion for Ghanaian football fans, with a defeat risking a difficult start to the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. Public interest in the game has translated into high ticket demand, with VVIP tickets priced as high as GHS700. The final decision on personnel rests with Queiroz and his technical team.
A win against Gambia would help Ghana avoid falling further behind in a group led by Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia, who both have three points. The team's current situation has created a sense of urgency, and the upcoming match has become crucial for their chances of advancing in the qualifiers.
The Black Stars will look to secure a victory against Gambia to boost their morale and get back on track in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and critics alike, as they seek to make a positive impact under coach Carlos Queiroz.
Key points
- Coach Carlos Queiroz may drop key players for the Gambia match.
- Ghana currently sits at the bottom of Group C with zero points.
- A win against Gambia is crucial for Ghana's chances of advancing in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
