Interim Black Stars head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has unveiled his 26-man squad for Ghana’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Somalia, with the return of several established internationals and the inclusion of promising home-based players dominating the selection.
The announcement has generated excitement among Ghanaian football supporters, particularly with the return of key figures such as Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey and Daniel Kofi Kyereh.
Ghana, who are seeking to revive their qualification campaign after losing their opening two matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, will be under pressure to deliver positive results in both encounters.
KUDUS, JORDAN AYEW AND KYEREH LEAD THE RETURNING STARS
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the squad is the return of Mohammed Kudus and Daniel Kofi Kyereh.
Kudus, who plays for Tottenham Hotspur, returns after an injury-related absence that ruled him out of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. His creativity, technical ability and attacking versatility could prove crucial as the Black Stars look to improve their attacking performances.
Captain Jordan Ayew also returns after missing the previous qualifiers through injury. His experience, leadership and versatility in the attacking department will be important to the team’s ambitions.
Meanwhile, Daniel Kofi Kyereh earns a return to the national team for the first time in four years. The midfielder’s inclusion is particularly encouraging, considering his long absence from international football due to injury.
Alidu Seidu is another notable returnee who could strengthen Ghana’s defensive options.
The availability of these experienced players provides Björkegren with additional quality and options as he prepares for the crucial encounters.
THREE NEW FACES GET THEIR OPPORTUNITY
Another major highlight of the squad is the inclusion of three new home-based players: Musa Hamzata of Asante Kotoko and Medeama SC duo Etse Dogli and Emmanuel Annor.
Their selection represents a significant opportunity for the trio to make their mark at the highest level of Ghanaian football.
Musa Hamzata has earned recognition for his performances in defence for Asante Kotoko, while Etse Dogli’s contribution in midfield and Emmanuel Annor’s attacking qualities have earned them opportunities with the senior national team.
The inclusion of these players also sends a positive message about the importance of the Ghana Premier League as a pathway to the national team.
Benjamin Asare of Hearts of Oak and Isaac Afful of FC Samartex complete the list of five locally based players in the squad.
A MIX OF EXPERIENCE AND YOUNG TALENT
Beyond the headline names, the squad features several exciting talents who will be looking to establish themselves in the Black Stars setup.
Caleb Yirenkyi, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Ibrahim Osman, Prince Adu Kwabena and Jonas Adjetey are among the players expected to bring energy and youthful quality to the team.
In midfield, Thomas Partey, Rahim Ibrahim, Augustine Boakye and Ibrahim Sulemana provide the coach with different tactical options.
Defensively, the presence of Mohammed Salisu, Gideon Mensah, Jerome Opoku, Alidu Seidu and Jonas Adjetey offers a combination of international experience and youthful potential.
The challenge for Björkegren will be finding the right balance and ensuring that the available individual talents translate into a cohesive team performance.
THE FULL 26-MAN BLACK STARS SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
DEFENDERS
MIDFIELDERS
ATTACKERS
SOMALIA DOUBLE-HEADER: TIME TO RESPOND
Ghana will face Somalia in two important qualifying encounters as they seek to get their 2027 AFCON campaign back on track.
First leg: Thursday, November 12, 2026 – 3:00 PM GMT
Second leg: Monday, November 16, 2026 – 3:00 PM GMT
The first encounter will be played at the Essipong Sports Stadium in Sekondi-Takoradi, with the return fixture scheduled for November 16.
Having suffered defeats in their opening two qualifying matches, the Black Stars cannot afford another disappointing performance.
For Björkegren, the double-header presents an opportunity to demonstrate his tactical approach, build confidence within the squad and give supporters something positive to celebrate.
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