Queiroz Recalls Kudus and Welcomes New Talent for AFCON Qualifiers Push

Ghana's national football team will head into crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers this month with a refreshed squad that blends World Cup experience with promising new talent. Coach Carlos Queiroz has named his 24-man team for matches against Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and a friendly fixture with Morocco, signalling his intent to balance squad continuity with fresh impetus as the Black Stars navigate their path to the 2027 tournament.

The most significant inclusion is the return of Mohammed Kudus, the talented midfielder who was sidelined for seven months with injury and missed Ghana's participation in the recent World Cup. His recovery and recall underscores Queiroz's confidence in Kudus's readiness to contribute to the team's campaign during this critical qualifying phase.

New Faces and Returning Stars

Queiroz has rewarded form at club level by introducing fresh names into the fold. Jan Gyamerah of SV Elversberg and Ronald Donkor of New York Red Bulls have earned their places on the back of impressive performances for their respective sides. Meanwhile, Nathaniel Adjei, who has been in standout form for Lorient in France's Ligue 1, returns to international colours after nearly a year away from the squad.

The goalkeeper position sees Benjamin Asare of Hearts of Oak continue his partnership with Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Anang, providing stability in a key area. Elsewhere, returning internationals Ibrahim Osman of Brighton and Hove Albion and Ibrahim Sulemana of Sassuolo rejoin the squad, bringing European club experience to bolster Ghana's midfield and attacking options.

The Road Ahead: Fixture Schedule and AFCON Implications

Ghana faces a demanding schedule over the coming weeks. The Black Stars will travel to face Côte d'Ivoire on Thursday, September 24, before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, September 29. The campaign concludes with an international friendly against Morocco on Sunday, October 4, 2026, providing valuable preparation ahead of the continuation of qualifying duties.

These matches carry significant weight in Ghana's pursuit of qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The meetings with Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia are not merely friendlies but pivotal qualifying fixtures that will determine Ghana's standing in their group. A strong showing against established rivals like Ivory Coast could set the tone for the campaign, whilst the home fixture against The Gambia offers an opportunity to secure vital points at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Why It Matters for Ghana

Queiroz's squad selection reflects a strategic approach to rebuilding confidence following the World Cup cycle. By mixing experienced World Cup players with emerging talent, the coach is signalling that Ghana's football future remains competitive despite recent disappointments on the global stage. The return of key players like Kudus demonstrates that Ghana retains quality across positions, whilst new faces like Gyamerah and Donkor suggest a pipeline of talent ready to compete at international level.

Qualification for AFCON 2027 is crucial for Ghana's continental aspirations and provides a platform to rediscover form and cohesion under Queiroz's leadership. With a blend of technical quality, youth, and international experience now assembled, the coming weeks will provide early indicators of whether this squad can deliver on the pitch when it matters most.