The latest Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad, scheduled for March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium, was announced by head coach Otto Addo on Friday, March 14, 2025.
This 23-man squad reflects a blend of experienced players, returning stars, and emerging talents as Ghana aims to maintain their strong position in Group I of the qualifiers, where they currently sit second with nine points after four matches (three wins, one loss).
Below is an analysis of the squad focusing on key inclusions, absences, strengths, and potential challenges. The squad calls for minimal criticism as almost a nearing perfect crop of performing players have just been called and having communicated injured players by the Ghana Football Association just shut critics.
Key Inclusions
Thomas Partey’s Return
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is back in the squad after missing Ghana’s last international window in November 2024 due to injury.
His return is a major boost, bringing leadership, composure, and technical quality to the midfield. Partey’s experience in high-stakes matches and his ability to control the tempo could be pivotal against a Chad side looking to upset Ghana at home. Partey has been a key part of Arteta’s side featuring 28 times this season in the Premiership scoring three and assisting two.
Local Talent Representation
Three home-based players made the cut:
Benjamin Asare(Hearts of Oak): The Ghana Premier League’s leading goalkeeper in clean sheets (12 in 20 matches this season) earns his first-ever call-up.
Despite conceding in Hearts of Oak 1-0 defeat to Dreams FC on Match Day 24 of the Premier League at the Legon Stadium on Saturday, he’s expected to not only boost goalkeeping area but also add depth.
Kamaradini Mamudu (Medeama SC): A versatile defender, Mamudu’s selection highlights his consistency in the local league.
Razak Simpson (Nations FC): Retaining his spot after impressing in November 2024 against Angola and Niger, Simpson bolsters the defensive line with his physicality and reliability.
These selections suggest a deliberate effort to integrate local talent, potentially boosting morale among Ghanaian football fans and the domestic league.
Debutant Christopher Bonsu Baah
The 20-year-old Genk forward, known for his pace and trickery on the left wing, receives his maiden call-up. Baah adds an exciting attacking dimension.
Bonsu Baah’s explosive pace and dribbling skills allow him to beat defenders, as seen in his 57 successful dribbles leading the Norwegian Eliteserien during his time with Sarpsborg 08.
For Genk, he’s shown improving goal-scoring, with 3 goals from 42 shots in 27 appearances in the 2024-2025 season, and a strong crossing ability, delivering 63 crosses in the same period. His ability to draw fouls, with 58 drawn in 2024-2025, suggests he disrupts defenses effectively. His versatility (able to play centrally or as an attacking midfielder) could provide tactical flexibility against Chad’s defense.
Returning Players
Inaki Williams: The Athletic Bilbao striker returns after missing prior games, strengthening the forward line with his work rate and goal-scoring threat. Iñaki has had an impressive 2024/2025 season with Athletic Club. In La Liga, he’s had 25 start from 27 matches, scoring 5 goals and providing 8 assists, totaling 13 goal contributions. Across all competitions (La Liga, Copa del Rey, Europa League, and Supercopa), he has recorded 10 goals and 10assists in 39 appearances. His stats highlight his dual threat as both a scorer and creator, with standout rankings in assists and big chances created in La Liga.
Kamal Deen Sulemana: Southampton’s winger is back, offering speed and flair on the flanks.
Jerry Afriyie: The C.D. Lugo youngster retains his place after a standout performance against Niger in November 2024, signaling his growing importance to the team.
Jordan Ayew as Captain: The Crystal Palace forward continues to lead the squad, bringing experience and a proven track record (including a hat-trick against Central African Republic in 2024). His leadership will be crucial in a must-win game.
Notable Absences
Several key players are missing due to injuries or tactical decisions, which could impact Ghana’s performance:
Tariq Lamptey: The Brighton defender, despite his good form, is sidelined by injury, weakening the right-back position. Abdul Fatawu Issahaku: The Leicester City winger is out with an ACL injury, depriving the team of his dynamism on the right.
Alidu Seidu: Another ACL injury victim, the Rennes defender’s absence leaves a gap in central defense.
Andre Ayew: The veteran skipper and Le Havre star misses out again, despite his strong club form, suggesting a shift toward younger players or a tactical preference by Addo.
Other Injuries: Players like Abdul Mumin, Daniel Kofi Kyereh, and Ibrahim Sulemana are also reportedly unavailable, reducing squad depth.
Squad Strengths
Midfield Quality: With Partey anchoring the midfield alongside returning players like Kamal Deen Sulemana, Ghana has a strong engine room capable of dictating play and breaking down Chad’s likely defensive setup.
Attacking Options: The inclusion of Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Jerry Afriyie, and debutant Christopher Bonsu Baah provides a mix of experience, youth, and versatility upfront. This could overwhelm Chad, who have lost all four of their qualifiers so far.
Home Advantage: Playing at the Accra Sports Stadium with fan support (emphasized by ex-player Afo Dodoo as critical) could lift the team’s performance. Ghana’s recent 3-2 win over Central African Republic at home showcases their potency in front of their crowd.
Defensive Solidity: Despite absences, the presence of local defenders like Simpson and Mamudu, combined with experienced overseas-based players, should suffice against Chad’s weaker attack.
Lows
Injury Impact: The absence of 12 key players (as reported) could strain squad depth, especially if injuries occur during the match or the subsequent game against Madagascar. The reliance on relatively untested local players in high-pressure situations might be a risk.
Pressure to Perform: After failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, the Black Stars face scrutiny. A loss or draw against Chad, the weakest team in Group I, could intensify criticism of Addo and the team.
Integration of Newcomers: While Baah and Asare bring fresh energy, their lack of international experience might lead to adjustment issues against a physical Chad side coached by Tahir Zakaria, who has named a 30-man provisional squad blending youth and experience.
Tactical Outlook
Otto Addo is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, leveraging Partey’s defensive nous in midfield to free up attacking players like Sulemana, Baah, and Williams. Jordan Ayew could play as a false nine or traditional striker, depending on Chad’s defensive structure.
The focus will likely be on quick transitions and exploiting the flanks, where Baah and Sulemana could exploit gaps. Defensively, Ghana should remain compact, with Simpson and Mamudu tasked with neutralizing Chad’s limited attacking threats.
Conclusion
The Black Stars squad against Chad is well-balanced, with Partey’s return and the inclusion of promising talents like Baah and Asare offsetting the impact of injuries. While Chad, winless in the qualifiers, poses little threat on paper, Ghana must avoid complacency to secure three points and bolster their World Cup qualification hopes.
The squad’s success will hinge on how quickly the new and returning players gel, and whether they can capitalize on their superior quality and home support to deliver a convincing win.
The game is scheduled for March 21, 2025 at the Accra Sports Stadium at 17:00GMT
