Ghana will look to the return of Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew and Mohammed Salisu to reignite their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Somalia in a double-header.
The Black Stars have lost both of their Group C matches so far, falling 2-0 to Cote d’Ivoire before suffering a 4-2 home defeat by The Gambia after taking a two-goal lead. They have conceded six times and are yet to claim a point.
Interim coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren has recalled several experienced players as Ghana attempt to recover from their poor start. Jonas Adjetey also provides another defensive option after gaining valuable experience at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus’ return is a major boost for Ghana’s attack. The Tottenham Hotspur forward missed the whole of 2026 for the national team after injury ruled him out of the World Cup and the opening AFCON qualifiers.
He scored two goals and provided two assists in 10 appearances during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. His ability to carry the ball forward, beat defenders and create chances gives Ghana an attacking outlet they lacked consistency in their first two matches.
Kudus can also link midfield with the forward line, while his movement and creativity could prove important in breaking down Somalia.
Thomas Partey
Ghana’s midfield was criticised after the defeats to Cote d’Ivoire and The Gambia, particularly when the team struggled to control key periods of both games.
Partey offers experience, composure and the ability to dictate the tempo. His distribution and defensive work can help Ghana regain control of possession and disrupt opposition attacks.
His presence could also be valuable in managing matches more effectively. Ghana were unable to protect a two-goal advantage against The Gambia, and Partey’s experience may help prevent a repeat.
Jordan Ayew
Captain Jordan Ayew missed the opening qualifiers because of injury but returns to lead the forward line. The Sheffield forward scored seven goals in 10 appearances during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
His ability to hold up the ball, operate across the attacking line and create room for team-mates gives Ghana another dimension. Alongside Kudus, he could form a more experienced and threatening attacking partnership.
Ayew will also be expected to provide leadership as Ghana try to respond to their disappointing start.
Mohammed Salisu
Ghana’s defensive problems have been clear, with six goals conceded in two matches, making Mohammed Salisu’s return particularly significant.
The Monaco defender made seven appearances and scored twice during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. He offers strong reading of the game, timely interceptions and aerial ability.
Salisu can also threaten from set pieces, giving Ghana an additional option at corners and free-kicks. His organisation at the back could help the Black Stars avoid the costly lapses seen in their opening fixtures.
Jonas Adjetey
Jonas Adjetey is another defensive option with important international experience. He played in three matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including alongside Jerome Opoku.
The defender brings physical strength, composure and the ability to compete with opposing attackers. Whether he starts with Opoku or another centre-back, Ghana will hope he can use that World Cup experience to help produce a more disciplined performance.
The Somalia fixtures offer Ghana a chance to repair their qualification campaign, but individual quality will not be enough. They must improve defensively, control midfield and become more clinical in front of goal.
