Black Stars interim head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has rewarded three outstanding Ghana Premier League performers with maiden call-ups ahead of Ghana’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Somalia.
Asante Kotoko defender Musa Hamzata and Medeama SC duo Emmanuel Annor and Etse Dogli have all been included in the 26-man squad after impressive performances at club level.
The trio will be hoping to make their senior international debuts as Ghana look to revive their AFCON qualification campaign following successive defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia in their opening two matches.
Hamzata has earned recognition after establishing himself as one of the Ghana Premier League’s most dependable defenders with Asante Kotoko. His consistent displays, composure and defensive solidity have convinced the Black Stars technical team to hand him his first senior national team invitation.
Medeama striker Emmanuel Annor has also been rewarded for his excellent form in attack. The forward has been a key figure for the Mauve and Yellow, producing impressive performances in both the Ghana Premier League and continental competition to earn his breakthrough call-up.
Joining him is midfield teammate Etse Dogli, whose energy, composure and consistency have made him one of Medeama’s standout performers this season. The 22-year-old has impressed with his all-round displays and now gets the opportunity to showcase his quality on the international stage.
Their inclusion underlines Björkegren’s willingness to reward outstanding domestic performers as he seeks to strengthen the Black Stars squad ahead of two must-win encounters.
Ghana will host Somalia in the first fixture at the Essipong Sports Stadium on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 15:00 GMT, before facing the East African side again at the same venue on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 15:00 GMT.
With the Black Stars yet to pick up a point in the qualifiers, the two matches represent a crucial opportunity to reignite their campaign and boost their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
