Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has confirmed that 22 players are ready for Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, as the Black Stars prepare to pursue their first points in Group C on home soil.
The announcement comes with some injury concerns within the squad. Ronald Donkor remains doubtful for the match, while defender Alexander Djiku has been ruled out due to injury.
Despite those setbacks, Queiroz has expressed confidence in the players available to him, insisting that the Black Stars remain solid as they prepare for an important fixture in their qualifying campaign.
The coach is now focused on helping the team deliver a strong performance and make the most of home advantage.
Djiku Ruled Out as Donkor Remains Doubtful
Ghana will have to manage the absence of Alexander Djiku, who has been ruled out of Tuesday’s encounter because of injury.
Djiku’s unavailability is a setback for the Black Stars, particularly given the importance of defensive organisation in a competitive qualifier. His absence will require the coaching staff to rely on the other available defenders to maintain stability at the back.
Ronald Donkor is also a concern, with the player still doubtful ahead of the match. His availability will depend on his condition as the team approaches kick-off.
With 22 players confirmed as ready, Queiroz will have to make his final selection based on the fitness and tactical suitability of those available.
The coach, however, has not allowed the injury concerns to overshadow the team’s preparations.
Queiroz Dismisses Concerns About Team Issues
Queiroz has played down suggestions that the Black Stars are dealing with deeper problems, maintaining that the squad remains united and capable of responding to the challenge.
The coach’s message is one of confidence and focus, with the immediate priority being to secure a positive result in front of the home supporters.
Rather than allowing attention to shift towards criticism or uncertainty, Queiroz wants the players to concentrate on their responsibilities and approach the match with determination.
His comments also underline his intention to build a team that can serve Ghana beyond a single qualifying fixture. While Tuesday’s result is important, the coach is also focused on developing a strong foundation for the national side over the longer term.
Attacking Football Key to Ghana’s Plans
The Ghana coach has called for an attacking approach as the Black Stars look to collect their first Group C points at home.
Queiroz wants his players to show ambition, take the initiative and make use of their attacking strengths. A positive approach could help Ghana put pressure on their opponents and create opportunities in key areas of the pitch.
However, attacking intent will also need to be supported by discipline and balance. Ghana must remain organised defensively while committing players forward, particularly with Djiku unavailable and Donkor’s status uncertain.
The challenge for Queiroz will be to find the right combination of creativity, energy and defensive stability to give the Black Stars the best opportunity to secure the result they need.
Queiroz Calls on Fans to Support the Black Stars
Queiroz has also urged Ghanaian supporters to rally behind the players who are available for the qualifier.
The coach recognises the importance of the relationship between the national team and its fans, especially during a campaign in which every point can have a significant impact on qualification hopes.
Support for the Black Stars has also been visible on social media, where fans have shared messages of encouragement ahead of the match.
The response reflects the anticipation surrounding Ghana’s qualifying campaign and the expectation that the team will respond positively on home soil.
Queiroz’s appeal is for supporters to stand behind the squad, regardless of the players missing through injury, and help create an encouraging atmosphere for the team.
Ghana Target a Positive Start in Group C
Tuesday’s fixture presents Ghana with an opportunity to strengthen its position in Group C and build momentum in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
With the squad facing injury-related changes, the Black Stars will need contributions from the available players across the pitch. Queiroz’s confidence in the group suggests that he believes the team has sufficient quality and character to meet the challenge.
The coach’s emphasis on attacking football, unity and long-term development provides a clear indication of the approach he wants Ghana to adopt.
For the players, the immediate task is to translate that message into a disciplined and energetic performance capable of delivering the desired result.
Focus Turns to Matchday
With 22 players ready, Alexander Djiku ruled out and Ronald Donkor doubtful, Ghana’s preparations are entering their final stage.
Queiroz has dismissed concerns about wider problems within the squad and is encouraging his players to focus on the opportunity ahead. He has also made clear that the team should approach the match with attacking intent while receiving the full support of the Ghanaian public.
The Black Stars will now look to turn that confidence into a positive home performance and secure their first points in Group C.
For Ghana, Tuesday’s qualifier is an opportunity to respond, build momentum and give supporters a performance to rally behind.
Esther Afriyie Kumah is the Digital Media & Operations Manager and a writer AL Media Sports, the sports division of AL Media Group. She specializes in sports journalism, content and video production, covering Premier League, Champions League, La Liga, and African football with in-depth match reports, tactical analysis, player ratings, and expert insights.