Sports News of 2026-09-22
Ghana will have a difficult test against Ivory Coast without Kudus – Adebayor
Togo legend Emmanuel Adebayor believes Ghana will face a difficult test against Ivory Coast following the withdrawal of Mohammed Kudus from the Black Stars squad.
Ghana are set to open their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against the Ivorians in Bouaké on September 24.
Kudus was initially included in Carlos Queiroz’s 24-man squad after returning from a lengthy injury layoff but withdrew from the team on Sunday as he continues his recovery. Derby County forward Mohammed Fuseini has been called up as his replacement.
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Adebayor, speaking to 3Sports, said Kudus’ absence will be felt because of the confidence and experience he brings to the national team.
“There is no game without an experienced player; it will be hard,” Adebayor said.
“Kudus would have brought confidence into the team. But with [youngsters], trust me, it will be difficult.”
The former Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham forward also stressed the need for experienced players in a high-profile fixture such as Ghana’s clash with Ivory Coast.
“Ivory Coast against Ghana, you need some players who can bring ,” he added.
The Black Stars will travel to the Staden de la Paix in Bouaké for their opening Group C fixture before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 27.
The qualifiers are Ghana’s first steps towards securing a place at the 2027 AFCON after missing the previous edition of the tournament.
Queiroz will hope the available players can step up in Kudus’ absence and help Ghana make a strong start to the qualifying campaign.
Ghana will then face Morocco in an international friendly at the Grand Stade de Tanger on October 4 to wrap up the international window.
PAH/JKB
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