Kyereh, Yirenkyi, Dogli: Who partners Partey in Ghana's midfield against Somalia?

Thomas Partey is expected to provide the experience and stability in midfield when Ghana hosts Somalia in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday, November 12, 2026, but the question of who should partner the Al Shabab midfielder presents interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren with several options.

The Black Stars have struggled to establish control in their opening two qualifying matches, losing to Ivory Coast and The Gambia, and will need a more organised midfield performance at the Essipong Sports Stadium.

Partey appears the natural choice to occupy the defensive midfield position, using his experience, ball retention and ability to dictate the tempo to provide a platform for Ghana's attacking players.

Daniel Kofi Kyereh is another strong candidate. The midfielder returns to the national team after four years away and offers creativity, intelligent movement and the ability to operate between the lines.

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However, Caleb Yirenkyi could also make a strong case for a starting position.

The Coventry City midfielder brings energy, mobility and an ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases.

Rahim Ibrahim and Medeama's Etse Dogli are further options available to Björkegren, with the latter hoping to make an impression following his maiden call-up.

Mohammed Kudus also presents an interesting alternative. Although primarily an attacking player, the Tottenham Hotspur star could operate centrally in a more advanced midfield role, where his dribbling, movement and ability to break defensive lines could trouble Somalia.

With Ghana expected to dominate possession, the coach must decide whether to prioritise creativity, energy or defensive balance.

A Partey-Kyereh-Yirenkyi combination could offer a blend of experience, creativity and mobility, but the final decision will depend on Björkegren's tactical approach.

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