Ghana’s Black Stars will be under pressure to secure their first points of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium today, Tuesday, September 29.
The Group C encounter, scheduled for a 4pm kick-off, comes after Ghana suffered a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké in their opening fixture.
The Gambia, meanwhile, began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Somalia on Friday and currently sit on three points, level with Côte d’Ivoire at the top of the group.
For Ghana, the home fixture represents an important opportunity to respond to the disappointing result in Côte d’Ivoire and get their qualification campaign back on track. The Black Stars missed the 2025 AFCON in Morocco and are seeking a return to the continental tournament in 2027.
Coach Carlos Queiroz will, however, have to make do without captain Alexander Djiku, who suffered an injury during the defeat in Bouaké and has since returned to his club, Spartak Moscow.
Queiroz confirmed at Monday’s pre-match press conference that 22 players are available for the game, with Ronald Donkor the only remaining doubt.
The Portuguese coach wants Ghana to control possession and maintain an attacking approach throughout the match. He also expects his players to improve their finishing after several chances were missed against Côte d’Ivoire.
“We always win or learn. The boys are ready with a lot of motivation,” Queiroz said, stressing the need for Ghana to keep possession and improve in the decisive moments.
The Gambia will also be missing several important players. Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh is ruled out with injury, while Musa Barrow, Abdoulie Manneh and Adama Sidibeh are also unavailable.
Captain Omar Colley is expected to lead the Scorpions, who will look to build on their opening victory.
