Ghana is set to face the Central African Republic in the final Group E match of the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The Black Stars must secure at least a draw in this game to guarantee their qualification for the AFCON tournament scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast in January and February next year. However, they will have to do so without several key players.
Injuries have ruled out notable figures like Thomas Partey, Daniel Amartey, Kamal Deen Sulemana, Joseph Wolacott, Majeed Ashimeru, Mohammed Salisu, and Benjamin Tetteh. Additionally, Joseph Paintsil, who initially received a call-up, withdrew due to injury. The Genk forward has been replaced in the team by Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, currently on loan at Leicester City from Sporting Lisbon.
Despite the injury setbacks, Head Coach Chris Hughton still has a strong squad to select from. Here is a potential lineup for Ghana:
Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, who has been the first-choice keeper since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is expected to start in goal.
In the defensive lineup, Alidu Seidu is anticipated to feature as the right-back, while Baba Rahman will take the left-back position, marking his first start since the World Cup match against Uruguay. Joseph Aidoo and Alexander Djiku are likely to form the central defense pairing.
In the midfield, Salis Abdul Samed and Baba Iddrisu are expected to provide defensive coverage in front of the backline. On the flanks, Jordan Ayew and Osman Bukari are likely to occupy the wings, while Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams are expected to play in the number 10 and number 9 positions, respectively.
Here’s how Ghana could line up today:
Ati Zigi (GK), Alidu Seidu, Baba Rahman, Joseph Aidoo, Alexander Djiku, Baba Iddrisu, Salis Samed, Mohammed Kudus, Osman Bukari, Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew (C)
