Ghana coach names three debutants in starting XI to face Benin

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has named three debutants Lumor Agbeyenu, Kasim Nuhu and Thomas Agyepong in his starting line-up to face Benin on Monday night in their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations opener.

But Inter Milan versatile defender Kwadwo Asamoah and the country's all-time top scorer Asamoah Gyan will start from the bench.

The trio will be supported by experienced stars like Jordan Ayew who leads the attack with his brother and team captain Andre supporting him up front.

Appiah has chosen Spain-based duo Mubarak Wakaso and Thomas Partey in the middle of the park.

Maritzburg United No.1 Richard Ofori has maintained his place between the sticks with Andy Yiadom as right back.

Agbeyenu starts as left back ahead of Baba Rahman and the centre-back pair will be John Boye and Kasim Nuhu.

In-form winger Agyepong gets to start despite playing just nine matches on loan at Hibernian in the Scottish Premier League.

Also on the wings will be Christian Atsu who comes into the tournament after an impressive season with Newcastle United in the English Premier League.

The match will be played at the Ismailia Stadium at 20:00 GMT after the Group opener between Cameroon and Guinea Bissau.

Ghana's starting XI to face Benin:

Richard Ofori

Andy Yiadom

Lumor Agbeyenu

John Boye

Kasim Nuhu

Mubarak Wakaso

Thomas Partey

Thomas Agyepong

Christian Atsu

Andre Ayew

Jordan Ayew