In the lead-up to the much-anticipated AFCON 2023, Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, have officially disclosed their roster. Chris Hughton, the team’s head coach, revealed the names of the 27 players chosen to represent Ghana in the tournament held in Côte d’Ivoire.
The roster announcement carries a significant blow with the conspicuous absence of Thomas Partey, the Arsenal midfielder who recently returned from injury. Losing one of their key pillars is undoubtedly a setback for the Black Stars as they prepare for the continental competition. Furthermore, Fatawu Issahaku of Leicester has opted to withdraw from the squad, raising questions about team cohesion and preparation, though the reasons for this decision remain undisclosed.
The Ghana squad with other key players
However, amidst these challenges, the list boasts the inclusion of the Ayew brothers, André and Jordan, iconic figures in Ghanaian football. Their experience and leadership are expected to play a pivotal role in guiding a relatively young team through the trials of the CAN. Another player to watch is the forward Inaki Williams, born in Spain but choosing to represent Ghana since last year, injecting a new dynamism into the Black Stars’ attack.
Coach Chris Hughton is also counting on the in-form Mohammed Kudus, who recently expressed satisfaction at joining West Ham United despite offers from other clubs. Hughton shared his delight, stating, “I have to admit, I was delighted when he (Kudus) went there because what I knew would happen to him, particularly with the way David sets his teams up, I knew he’d put him in a structure,” as he mentioned on TalkSport.
Facing a drought since their last CAN triumph in 1982, Ghana aims to end this lengthy trophyless period. Despite the absence of some key players, Ghana remains a competitive team, blending young talents with experienced veterans. Ghanaian supporters are hopeful that this team will overcome obstacles and bring glory back to the nation. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the Black Stars to see if they can triumph once again on the African continent, where they will face Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in Group B.
Can Ghana’s squad measure up ?
In Group B, the battle is undeniably centered between Egypt and Ghana. Despite the historical advantage of the Pharaohs, they currently hold a slight edge in terms of current form. Led by the impressive Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs aim to maintain their status against the “Black Stars” eager for redemption after their recent disappointing African campaigns. It’s worth noting that Egypt has won the CAN seven times in its history (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010).
Nevertheless, Ghana is also among the favorites for this Africa Cup of Nations. The new generation of talents, featuring players like Mohammed Kudus, Inaki Williams, and others, must live up to the high expectations of the football world. It’s a crucial opportunity for them to finally prove themselves.
It’s important to emphasize that Ghana is one of the most prestigious teams in Africa. The Black Stars have won the competition four times in their history, in 1963, 1965, 1978, and the 1982 edition. Despite this rich experience, the team needs to redeem itself after recent underwhelming performances in competitions.
Ghana’s squad for AFCON 2023 :
Goalkeepers : Richard Ofori (Wa All Stars), Joseph Wollacott (Hibernian), Lawrence Ati-Zigi (FC Saint-Gall)
Defenders : Alidu Seidu (Clermont), Denis Odoi (Club Bruges), Kingsley Schindler (Samsunspor), Gideon Mensah (AJ Auxerre), Abdul Fatawu Hamid (Medeama), Nicholas Opoku (Amiens SC), Daniel Amartey (Beşiktaş), Salisu Mohammed (AS Monaco), Alexander Djiku (Fenerbahçe).
Midfielders : Baba Iddrisu (Almeria), Elisha Owusu (AJ Auxerre), Abdul Samed Salis (RC Lens), Richmond Lamptey (Asante Kotoko), Majeed Ashimeru (Anderlecht), Mohammed Kudus (West Ham), André Ayew (Le Havre), Königsdörffer (Hamburg SV)
Forwards : Osman Bukari (Etoile rouge), Joseph Painstil (Genk), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Ernest Nuamah (Lyon), Iñaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), Jonathan Sowah (Medeama).
As the tournament unfolds, the Ghanaian squad faces the challenge of proving its mettle and bringing home the coveted Africa Cup of Nations trophy. The expectations are high, and the football world eagerly awaits to see if the Black Stars can emerge victorious once again.
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