Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has revealed that debutant Derrick Kohn is yet to receive FIFA’s approval to feature in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali on Monday, September 8, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Germany-born defender, who earned his maiden call-up for the September doubleheader against Chad and Mali, could not take part in Thursday’s 1-1 draw in N’Djamena due to incomplete paperwork.
Addo confirmed the situation remains unresolved on the eve of Ghana’s crucial Group I fixture.
“So, yeah, we had a lot of difficulties in Chad. One was also Derek,” he said.
“We didn’t get the FIFA approval. To that point, we were hoping that we got it, and up to now, we didn’t get it. I’m hoping that it will come tomorrow morning. This is the status quo.”
The coach also used the opportunity to reiterate his selection philosophy, stressing that nationality of birth or development background plays no role in his decisions.
“In general, we are always open for any kind of players who are from Ghanaian descent. I always say it’s not about local players; it’s not about players from outside, or who are born in the diaspora. It’s about quality, and we are looking for all kinds of players. At the end, I have to choose,” he added.
Kohn, 26, joined Bundesliga side Union Berlin this summer from Turkish champions Galatasaray after an impressive spell in Istanbul.
Seen as a long-term solution for Ghana’s left-back role, his availability could prove crucial as the Black Stars push for a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
