Black Stars coach Otto Addo has unveiled a 23-man squad for Ghana’s upcoming crucial World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar, with notable selections including three home-based players, while Le Havre star attacker Andre Ayew has been dropped.
Addo has called up Hearts of Oak’s Benjamin Asare and Nations defender Razak Simpson, who will join Medeama SC defender Kamaradini Mamudu as the three local players to make the roster.
Medeama SC’s right-back, Kamaradini Mamudu, has been a revelation this season. With 17 matches under his belt, Mamudu has not only demonstrated his defensive prowess but also showcased his attacking flair, scoring 4 goals and earning 1 MVP award. His impressive form has been instrumental in Medeama SC’s success, and he’s definitely one to watch in the up coming fixtures.
Nations FC’s center-back, Razak Simpson, has been a rock-solid presence in the team’s defense resulting in back-to-back call up for the men’s senior national team. With 17 matches played, Simpson has scored 2 goals and earned 1 MVP award, highlighting his ability to contribute to the team’s attack while maintaining a strong defensive record.
Hearts of Oak’s goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare, has been in outstanding form, keeping 12 clean sheets in 18 matches. With only 7 goals conceded, Asare’s impressive goalkeeping has been crucial in Hearts of Oak’s success. His ability to make crucial saves and organize his defense has earned him widespread praise earning a place in the Black Stars roaster.
In contrast, inform Ayew, who’s last outing with the Black Stars comes as far as 26 March 2024 in Ghana’s 2-2 draw against Namimbia in the march international friendlies.
Despite his impressive form for Le Havre in the French Ligue 1, where he has netted four goals and provided one assist in 2025, Ayew was left out of coach Otto Addo’s 23-man squad.
Meanwhile Otto Addo’s squad is strengthened by the return of Arsenal’s star Thomas Partey and key like Kamal Deen Suleman a of Southampton FC, who is back from injury, and Jerry Afriyie of CD Lugo, who impressed in the match against Niger. Belgium-based Christopher Bonsu Baah of Genk also makes the cut.
Ghana will need to secure victories in both games and hope Comoros falter in their bid to secure back-to-back World Cup qualification.
Black Stars will play Chad on March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium and three days later take on Madagascar in Morocco.
