US-based Osman Bukari rejoins Black Stars after five-month absence for 2025 AFCON qualifiers

Austin FC forward Osman Bukari has earned a recall to the Ghana squad after a five-month absence, offering him a chance to return to national duty in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

Bukari last appeared for the Black Stars in January during the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, coming on as a substitute in the 2-2 draw with Egypt. However, his stint was cut short after an error on his part led to an Egyptian goal, prompting an early substitution.

Bukari last appeared for the Black Stars in January during the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, coming on as a substitute in the 2-2 draw with Egypt. However, his stint was cut short after an error on his part led to an Egyptian goal, prompting an early substitution.

Despite being called up again in June for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Bukari did not play in either game against Mali or the Central African Republic.

Now, with Ghana’s qualification for AFCON hanging in the balance, Bukari’s return brings experience and renewed commitment to a squad that’s been reshuffled due to withdrawals from key players.

Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Alexander Djiku, and several others have been ruled out due to injuries and personal reasons, leading coach Otto Addo to introduce new faces, including Bukari, in a move to fortify the team.

With 17 caps for Ghana, Bukari has contributed three goals and two assists in his international career, and his recent form at the club level positions him as a valuable option for the Black Stars.

He joins the team as Ghana looks to secure crucial wins in Luanda against Angola on November 15, before hosting Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

The stakes are high, as Ghana’s qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco is at risk after going winless in their last four matches.