Partey returns to Ghana squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Otto Addo, the Black Stars head coach has announced his full 23-man squad for Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Madagascar, with Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, returning to action after a long absence.

The team involves three players from our local league who are Benjamin Asare, Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, Medeama SC’s Kamaradini Mamudu, and Nations FC standout Razak Simpson, captained by Jordan Ayew.

Thomas Partey, the team’s vice captain , returns to the team after being absent from four Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches in 2024 as a result to injury. With over 50 international appearances in June 2016, Thomas Partey brings a wealth of bringing experience to the central midfield as Ghana looks to pick up vital points in Group I.

The squad also showcase prominent additions  like Southampton FC’s Kamal Deen Sulemana, who has has made a successful comeback from injury, and CD Lugo’s Jerry Afriyie, who maintains his place after an outstanding display against Niger in November 2024.

Again, Belgium-based Christopher Bonsu Baah of KRC Genk is among the squad. The dynamic left-footed right-winger, who can also play as an attacking midfielder, started his career with Accra Shooting Stars before relocating to Norway’s Sarpsborg 08 and eventually joined Genk in July 2023.

The Black Stars will come together on Monday, March 17, 2025, for a four-day training camp which will enable them prepare for our home fixture against Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, 2025. From there, they will head to Morocco on Monday, March 24, 2025, to play with Madagascar at the Grand Stade d’Al Hoceima in their second Group I fixture of the international fixtures.

Ghana is at the second place in Group I with nine points from four matches, on equal terms with leader Comoros. Their season started with a 1-0 win against Madagascar, but then suffered a loss against Comoros.

However, the more wins against Mali and the Central African Republic in June 2024 brought hope of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.