The Black Stars have swiftly acted to fill the gaps left by the withdrawal of eight key players ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger. With crucial matches on the horizon, the team has called up Osman Bukari (Austin FC), Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer (Hamburger SV), Forson Amankwah (Norwich City), Terry Yegbe (IF Elfsborg), Ebenezer Annan (OFK Beograd), and Kingsley Schindler (Samsunspor) to join the squad.
Read also: GFA offer German coach $60,000 to join Black Stars technical team
8 Key Players withdraw from AFCON qualifiers against Angola and Niger: Black Stars
These replacements come in response to injuries and personal reasons that forced the likes of Joseph Paintsil, Antoine Semenyo, Ibrahim Osman, Tariq Lamptey, Jerome Opoku, and Inaki Williams to pull out. Here’s a breakdown of the changes and what the new additions bring to the table:
1. Osman Bukari (Austin FC)
Osman Bukari steps in for Joseph Paintsil, who withdrew due to personal reasons. Bukari’s pace and agility on the wings make him a valuable asset in Paintsil’s absence. He brings dynamism to the attack and has been in impressive form for Austin FC this season.
2. Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer (Hamburger SV)
Replacing Antoine Semenyo, who is sidelined with a patella tendon injury, Königsdörffer is known for his versatility and goal-scoring ability. The forward from Hamburger SV is expected to provide fresh attacking options as Ghana looks to solidify their qualification chances.
3. Forson Amankwah (Norwich City)
Amankwah joins the squad in place of Ibrahim Osman, who suffered a hamstring injury in his last club match. Amankwah’s creativity in the midfield will be crucial in linking play and generating opportunities for the forwards.
4. Terry Yegbe (IF Elfsborg)
With Tariq Lamptey ruled out due to calf discomfort, Terry Yegbe has been called up to bolster the defensive line. Yegbe, known for his speed and strong tackling, will aim to fill the gap left by Lamptey’s absence.
5. Ebenezer Annan (OFK Beograd)
Annan replaces Jerome Opoku, who is dealing with chronic back pain. Annan’s defensive capabilities and aerial prowess will be key in ensuring stability at the back during these qualifiers.
6. Kingsley Schindler (Samsunspor)
Inaki Williams, who is out with a hamstring injury, will be replaced by Kingsley Schindler. Schindler’s experience and attacking flair are expected to bring a new dimension to the forward line as the Black Stars prepare to take on Angola and Niger.
Training Details
The team will begin their preparations at the Accra Sports Stadium starting Monday, November 11, at 5 p.m. With these crucial changes, the squad looks to overcome the setback of missing key players and maintain their momentum as they face Angola on Friday, November 15, followed by a home game against Niger on Monday, November 18.
Despite the challenges posed by the withdrawals, the new call-ups present an opportunity for fresh talent to shine as the Black Stars aim to secure their place in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
