Kwasi Sibo is the notable absentee from Ghana’s 26-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Somalia, ending his recent run as a regular member of the Black Stars setup.
The 28-year-old midfielder has been overlooked by head coach Kim Lars Björkegren following a challenging period at both club and international level.
Sibo had established himself as an important figure in Ghana’s midfield since making his senior international debut on September 8, 2025. He has since accumulated 14 appearances for the Black Stars, including four outings at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, his performances in Ghana’s opening AFCON 2027 qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia came under scrutiny, with the midfielder struggling to make a significant impact as the Black Stars suffered defeats in both encounters.
His fortunes have also taken a difficult turn at club level following his move to Libyan side Al-Swehly in August 2026.
Sibo joined the club as a free agent after parting ways with Spanish outfit Real Oviedo, signing a three-year contract with an option for an additional year. His move was widely reported to involve a lucrative financial package, although the figures have not been officially confirmed.
Despite the expectations surrounding his arrival, the Ghanaian midfielder has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at his new club.
His involvement in Al-Swehly’s CAF Champions League campaign was limited to just two appearances as the Libyan side suffered elimination at the hands of Tunisian giants Espérance de Tunis in the second preliminary round.
Al-Swehly secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg but lost by the same scoreline in the return fixture before eventually exiting the competition through a penalty shootout.
Sibo’s omission from the latest Black Stars squad represents a setback for the midfielder, who had become a regular option in the national team following his introduction to the senior setup last year.
Meanwhile, Björkegren has recalled captain Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus and Daniel Kofi Kyereh for the upcoming fixtures, while also handing opportunities to several home-based players as he looks to strengthen the squad.
Ghana will host Somalia at the Sekondi Sports Stadium on November 12 before travelling for the return encounter on November 16, with the Black Stars desperate to revive their qualification campaign after a disappointing start.
