Ghana will start their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign without the in-form attacking midfielder, Mohammed Kudus, who is notably absent from the matchday squad for the Cape Verde encounter.
With Egypt securing a late draw against Mozambique, Ghana need a winning start to take control of Group B. However, they will be without their star player, Kudus, who has scored 10 goals in all competitions this season, due to an ongoing hamstring issue. Coach Chris Hughton has opted not to risk Kudus against Cape Verde, who are making their fourth AFCON appearance this season.
In addition to Kudus, another notable absence from the Ghana squad is Inaki Williams, who finds himself on the bench. The reason for his exclusion is unclear, but it might be tactical, considering Williams has only managed to score one goal in over 10 appearances for the Black Stars since switching from Spain to Ghana in July 2022.
Captain Andre Ayew, who has scored Ghana’s opening goal in the last four editions of the AFCON, is also on the bench.
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– Salisu and Djiku at the back ?
– Semenyo spearheads the attack ??
– Ashimeru starts in midfield ?
– Ransford Yeboah ??#BlackStars pic.twitter.com/GeYCfQynqm— ?? Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) January 14, 2024
Goalkeeper Richard Ofori is the preferred choice between the posts, supported by centre-backs Moahmmed Salisu and Alexander Djiku. Gideon Mensah and Denis Odoi serve as fullbacks, while Majeed Ashimeru takes charge of the midfield.
Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer earns a rare start and will support lead striker Antoine Semenyo. The starting lineup also features Jordan Ayew, Baba Iddrisu, and Joseph Paintsil.
The Black Stars aim to break their streak of failing to win the opening game in the last two AFCON tournaments and will seek victory against Cape Verde on Sunday evening.