Ghana have suffered another blow before the start of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with Antoine Semenyo withdrawing from the Black Stars squad because of an ankle problem.
The Manchester City forward asked to be excused from the September-October international window as he continues his recovery from a niggling injury. Further medical checks are expected to provide more clarity on his condition.
Semenyo’s absence comes at an awkward time for Carlos Queiroz. The 26-year-old has started the new Premier League season strongly, scoring two goals and providing three assists in five league appearances for City.
His form had made him an important part of Ghana’s attacking plans. Now, Queiroz must reshape his options before a demanding start to the qualifying campaign.
Ghana travel to Bouaké to face Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday, September 24, before returning home to play The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium five days later. The two matches are the Black Stars’ opening Group C fixtures.
The timing makes Semenyo’s withdrawal even more significant. Ghana are already dealing with other absences, while Mohammed Kudus has also opted out of the window as he continues to manage his return to full fitness.
Queiroz has responded by making late changes to his squad. Brandon Thomas-Asante, Felix Afena-Gyan and Jonas Adjetey are among those brought in, while Rockson Yeboah and Rahim Ibrahim have received senior call-ups.
For Ghana, the challenge is now about finding solutions rather than dwelling on the missing names. With only six group matches in the qualifying campaign, the Black Stars will want their new-look attack to find its rhythm quickly.
