Ahead of Ghana’s crucial final qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Niger, Black Stars coach Otto Addo has bolstered the squad by calling up three talented home-based players. The new additions include Medeama SC right-back Kamaradini Mamudu, Heart of Lions defender Ebenezer Abban, and Thought FC forward Jerry Afriyie. These selections come in response to a series of injuries and absences among key players, such as Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, and team captain Jordan Ayew. Otto Addo's decision to introduce fresh talent aims to compensate for these crucial losses while injecting new energy into the squad. The selection of these three home-grown players highlights the increasing recognition of local talent within Ghana's football scene, with a focus on strengthening the national team for future challenges.
Mamudu, a standout performer in the Ghana Premier League this season, has been instrumental for Medeama SC. His two goals in just nine appearances from the right-back position have not only demonstrated his attacking abilities but also earned him a Man of the Match award, showcasing his defensive and offensive balance. Meanwhile, Ebenezer Abban has been a rock at the heart of the Heart of Lions' defense. He has played every game in the current league season, contributing significantly to his team’s impressive climb to third in the league standings. His consistent performance has caught the eye of national team selectors, reflecting his potential to become a defensive anchor for the Black Stars in the upcoming match. These defensive reinforcements will be critical in shoring up a Black Stars team that has struggled in previous qualifiers.
Jerry Afriyie, on the other hand, is a name that has been generating buzz among football enthusiasts. His contribution to Ghana’s Under-20 team, the Black Satellites, has been noteworthy, particularly during their gold medal run at the 2024 African Games. Afriyie was not only part of the victorious squad but also emerged as a standout player, securing the titles of both the best player and the top scorer at the WAFU Zone B U-20 Cup of Nations in Togo. His call-up to the senior team has been anticipated by fans who see him as a promising forward capable of bringing a fresh attacking threat to Ghana’s front line. As the Black Stars gear up for the clash against Niger, the addition of these three promising players is seen as a tactical move to end the AFCON qualifiers on a strong note. The upcoming match is crucial for Ghana, which has only managed to gather three points from five games, making this final encounter a matter of pride and redemption for the squad as they aim to close the qualification phase on a high note.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0