Ayew, Kudus and five other Zongo stars named in Black Stars squad for World Cup Qualifiers against Chad and Mali
Black Stars seek to maintain perfect Group I record in crucial September double-header
Jordan Ayew and Mohammed Kudus headline zongo stars in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali in September.
The Black Stars will play Chad away before hosting Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, September 8, 2025.
In an announcement made on Tuesday, Coach Otto Addo named skipper Jordan and talisman Kudus, with Ibrahim Sulemana, Ibrahim Osman, Abdul Salis Samed, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Mohammed Salisu completing a strong representation from the zongo communities in the Black Stars’ campaign.
Jordan Ayew leads with his Premier League credentials and proven goal-scoring record, while Mohammed Kudus continues his meteoric rise as one of Ghana’s most exciting attacking talents following his impressive performances at West Ham.
The midfield duo of Ibrahim Sulemana and Abdul Salis Samed provide energy and creativity in the engine room, while Kamaldeen Sulemana adds pace and trickery on the flanks after making an impressive start to life at Serie A side Atalanta following his move from Southampton. Rising star Ibrahim Osman brings youthful exuberance to the attacking options, and Mohammed Salisu anchors the defense with his commanding presence and leadership qualities.
Beyond the zongo representation, Coach Otto Addo has also included several other notable players. Union Berlin left-back Derrick Arthur Köhn earns his maiden call-up after an impressive season with Werder Bremen, where he made 27 appearances and scored 2 goals in the German Bundesliga. The 26-year-old moved from Galatasaray to Union Berlin this summer following his eye-catching loan spell.
Midfielder Elisha Owusu returns to the squad after recovering from a long-term injury, while promising youngster Caleb Yirenkyi receives recognition for his strong performances with FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark and his impressive showing at the Unity Cup in London.
Defender Tariq Lamptey makes his return to the side, joining Christopher Bonsu Baah and Ireland-based goalkeeper Joseph Anang in a well-balanced squad that reflects Ghana’s diverse talent pool.
Ghana currently leads Group I in the World Cup qualifiers with 15 points after recording five wins and one loss from six matches. The Black Stars will face Chad at Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno on Thursday, September 4, before returning home to host Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium.
