Ghana’s AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign has been shaken by the withdrawal of seven of coach Carlos Queiroz’s key players, including Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Baba Rahman and Jordan Ayew, most of whom cited injury concerns. The news unfolded in waves, with each name announced as the squad was finalised for the double‑header against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.
Although the departures look like a crisis, Queiroz and his staff are no strangers to turning adversity into advantage. The Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup experience showed that depth can thrive when the established stars are absent. In that tournament, the absence of centre‑back Alexander Djiku and Mohammed Salisu opened the door for Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey, who delivered standout performances against Panama and England.
Opoku, 27, impressed in the Turkish Süper Lig with Istanbul Başakşehir, while 22‑year‑old Adjetey was developing at VfL Wolfsburg. Both were untested on football’s biggest stages, yet they rose to the occasion, helping Ghana secure a 1‑0 win over Panama and a spirited draw with England.
Queiroz, who has managed five World Cups, is expected to organise the squad around a disciplined structure that has become a hallmark of the Black Stars. The current situation forces the team’s identity to become more fluid, giving fringe players a chance to prove themselves in high‑stakes matches.
The withdrawals may sharpen Ghana’s focus for the must‑win campaign that starts with an away fixture in Bouaké and a home tie at Accra Sports Stadium. Players know that a strong performance could cement their place in the national setup, turning pressure into opportunity.
Ghana’s football journey has always relied on a deep talent pool. The 2010 World Cup produced legends like Asamoah Gyan and Sulley Muntari, while the 2026 campaign showcased the next generation. Now, with the stars stepping aside, a new cohort is ready to seize the moment.
