Ati-Zigi, Sibo, Others: Black Stars players who could be benched against Gambia

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to shuffle his lineup as the team comes up against Gambia in a crucial game in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on September 29, 2026, at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The team lost its first game against Côte d'Ivoire in what was a shambolic performance from most of the key players who were expected to rise to the occasion.

The Black Stars are currently bottom of Group C with zero points, the same as Somalia, while Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia occupy the top two spots with three points each.

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One of the players who could be omitted from the starting lineup is Kwasi Sibo, whose poor showing in midfield became a major concern for fans after the Côte d'Ivoire game.

Sibo struggled to impose himself in the role designed to shield the defence. He finished the match with only 38 touches despite playing all 90 minutes and failed to win an aerial, ground, or overall duel. Ghana needed more presence from the player stationed directly in front of the defence.

Another player who could also suffer a similar fate is Christopher Bonsu Baah; his impact was barely felt in attack as he tracked back mostly to help the defence.

Bonsu Baah struggled to influence the game during his 64 minutes on the pitch. He occasionally appeared caught between shooting and finding a teammate, and Ghana ultimately got very little attacking production from his side of the pitch.

In the goalkeeping department, there have been few criticisms of Lawrence Ati-Zigi for the goal he conceded from Yalcouye’s long-range strike, in which the Ivorian midfielder took a touch, turned and advanced before finding the finish.

Even though he cannot be blamed entirely, coach Queiroz might consider giving Benjamin Asare a chance, as both goalkeepers compete for the spot.

Fatawu Issahaku’s position on the wing could also come under question following his below-par performance in the first match.

Fatawu’s biggest contribution came in a negative moment, as he conceded the penalty for the second goal. He also lost possession 11 times, the most of any player on the pitch, and struggled to make any forward progress.

Thomas-Asante could be positioned on the wings, with Felix Afena-Gyan given the chance to lead the attack.

However, the final decision rests with Carlos Queiroz and his technical team, who are eyeing a victory to avoid a disastrous start to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers campaign.

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