As Ghana gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali later this week, the form and fitness of the invited players offer a glimpse into what fans can expect when the Black Stars take to the pitch.
From goalkeepers to forwards, the weekend’s matches across Europe and beyond provided a mixed bag of positives, concerns, and opportunities.
Goalkeepers finding rhythm
Lawrence Ati-Zigi heads into camp on the back of confidence after helping St. Gallen secure a 2-1 win over Lausanne in the Swiss Super League.
Joseph Anang was also tested in St. Patrick’s 2-2 draw against Derry City, while Hearts of Oak’s Benjamin Asare, the only home-based invitee, impressed with a clean sheet in the GHALCA Top Four win over Asante Kotoko. Their form sets a healthy competitive tone for Ghana’s number one spot.
Defenders building sharpness
Gideon Mensah, a likely starter at left-back, got 84 minutes for Auxerre in their narrow loss to Nantes, showing he is match-ready.
Jerome Opoku, ever reliable, lasted the full 90 for Basaksehir in a stalemate against Eyuspor, while Alexander Djiku featured from the bench for Fenerbahce.
Caleb Yirenkyi added an attacking spark from defence, even scoring in Nordsjaelland’s 2-1 victory. However, concerns linger as Mohammed Salisu and Jonas Adjetey were unused, and Tariq Lamptey missed Brighton’s matchday squad altogether.
Midfield engine ticking
The heartbeat of the team; midfieldsaw steady action. Mohammed Kudus endured a tough outing in Tottenham’s loss to Bournemouth but his sharpness remains invaluable. Elisha Owusu and Ibrahim Osman both featured for Auxerre, adding depth.
Thomas Partey, though limited to 22 minutes for Villarreal, remains a crucial leader, while Salis Abdul Samed and Kamaldeen Sulemana added energy in their respective outings. This blend of experience and flair could prove decisive against Mali’s physical midfield.
Forwards carrying momentum
The Black Stars’ attack looks promising. Antoine Semenyo was industrious in Bournemouth’s big win at Tottenham, showcasing his pressing and hold-up play. Inaki Williams, fresh off 75 minutes in Athletic Bilbao’s 2-1 win, adds cutting edge, while Joseph Paintsil found the net for LA Galaxy, boosting his confidence.
Jordan Ayew also showed consistency with a full shift in Leicester’s victory. Young Jerry Afriyie continues to grow in Belgium with 90 minutes under his belt.
What it means for Ghana
The weekend’s matches show a squad with players in varying stages of fitness and form. While some, like Semenyo, Paintsil, and Ati-Zigi, arrive in top shape, others such as Salisu and Lamptey still have questions to answer. Nonetheless, the overall sharpness across key positions provides head coach Otto Addo with a solid platform to prepare.
As Ghana face Chad and Mali, translating these club performances into collective dominance will be the ultimate test. If the momentum carries through, the Black Stars could take a significant step toward the 2026 World Cup dream.
