Ghana head coach Otto Addo has named his squad for the crucial September World Cup qualifying double-header that could determine the Black Stars’ route to the 2026 tournament.
The West African nation will face Chad away at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno in N’Djamena on 4 September, before returning home to host Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium four days later on 8 September.
Ghana currently top Group I after six matches and will be desperate to maintain their position at the summit as they pursue qualification for what would be their fifth World Cup appearance.
The Black Stars endured a torrid 2024 campaign but have shown marked improvement this year, producing emphatic victories in their March fixtures. They demolished Chad 5-0 in Kumasi before securing a commanding 3-0 triumph over Madagascar at the same venue.
Addo and his technical staff have been meticulously monitoring Ghanaian talent across Europe’s top leagues, whilst assistant coaches John Paintsil and Fatau Dauda have been evaluating domestic-based players to ensure no stone is left unturned in squad selection.
The upcoming fixtures represent a pivotal moment in Ghana’s qualifying campaign. Victory against Chad would provide valuable breathing space, whilst the Mali encounter promises to be a stern examination of the Black Stars’ credentials against one of West Africa’s most accomplished sides.
Ghana’s resurgence under Addo has restored optimism amongst supporters who witnessed the team’s struggles during a disappointing previous campaign. The emphatic nature of their March victories suggested a side rediscovering its identity and playing with renewed confidence.
The squad features a blend of established stars and emerging talent, with regulars Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Antoine Semenyo, and Inaki Williams all included.
Notable additions include Union Berlin left-back Derrick Arthur Köhn, who receives his maiden call-up following an impressive campaign with Werder Bremen last season. The 26-year-old, who moved from Galatasaray to Union Berlin this summer, caught the technical team’s attention with 27 Bundesliga appearances and two goals during his loan spell at Bremen.
Winger Kamal Deen Sulemana earns his place after making a promising start at Serie A side Atalanta following his recent switch from Southampton. The pacey attacker’s early performances in Italy have clearly impressed the coaching staff.
France-based midfielder Elisha Owusu returns to the fold after successfully recovering from a lengthy injury layoff, providing Addo with additional options in the middle of the park.
Young prospect Caleb Yirenkyi has been rewarded for his standout displays with FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark, with his impressive showing at the Unity Cup in London further enhancing his reputation.
Defender Tariq Lamptey makes his return to the squad, whilst Christopher Bonsu Baah and Ireland-based goalkeeper Joseph Anang have both secured their spots for the crucial double-header.
Mali, meanwhile, will arrive in Accra determined to close the gap at the top of Group I and boost their own World Cup ambitions. The Eagles have consistently proven themselves as one of Africa’s most resilient sides and will provide a formidable test of Ghana’s qualifying credentials.
With only the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification, every point will prove crucial as the campaign reaches its decisive phase. Ghana’s strong start has positioned them favourably, but they cannot afford complacency against opponents who have nothing to lose.
The Black Stars’ loyal support base will be hoping their side can take a significant step towards securing their place at the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Below is the full squad list
