Eight players have withdrawn from Ghana’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger due to various injuries and personal reasons. These withdrawals have created significant gaps in the lineup, impacting the team’s preparation for the crucial matches. Here’s a detailed look at the players and the reasons behind their absence:
1. Inaki Williams: The striker sustained a hamstring injury on November 7 and has been unable to return to training since then. This setback keeps him sidelined as he focuses on recovery with his club’s medical team.
2. Tariq Lamptey: Lamptey is dealing with calf discomfort that worsened last week, leading his club to initiate a rehabilitation program. The decision was made to prioritize his full recovery before resuming national duties.
3. Jonas Adjetey: After making strides in his recovery, Adjetey suffered a relapse during his club’s league game on November 9. This has delayed his comeback to full fitness, preventing him from joining the national squad.
4. Jerome Opoku: Opoku has been managing chronic back pain, which intensified during a Super Lig match against Besiktas on November 10. The worsening condition necessitates ongoing rehabilitation, ruling him out of the upcoming qualifiers.
5. Antoine Semenyo: Semenyo’s patella tendon injury stems from the strain of frequent matches. His club’s medical team recommended a visit to a specialist to prevent further damage, prompting him to sit out of the qualifiers.
6. Alexander Djiku: Djiku aggravated a pre-existing hamstring injury in his last match on November 10, leading to his substitution. This recurrence of injury requires immediate rest and treatment.
7. Ibrahim Osman: Osman picked up a hamstring injury during his most recent club game, which forced him off at halftime. His current condition prevents him from being match-ready for the qualifiers.
8. Joseph Paintsil: Paintsil withdrew for personal reasons, details of which were not disclosed by the national team.
The absence of these key players may challenge Ghana’s depth and tactics. The coaching staff will need to assess alternative strategies and call upon other squad members to fill these vital roles as the team aims to secure its spot in the AFCON tournament.
