Ghana’s Black Stars are gearing up for an intense test of strength and strategy as head coach Otto Addo has officially named his squad for the upcoming four-nation tournament in May. The highlight fixture of the competition is Ghana’s semifinal clash with long-time West African rivals, Nigeria, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium. Kick-off is at 19:00 GMT.
Otto Addo’s squad reveals a careful blend of international experience and homegrown talent, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to building a competitive and adaptable team. The goalkeeping department features Lawrence Ati-Zigi of Swiss side St. Gallen, joined by Joseph Tetteh Anang, currently with St. Patrick’s Athletic in Ireland, and Benjamin Asare of Hearts of Oak, who earns a deserved call-up after impressive performances on the local scene.
The defensive lineup sees a return for dependable names such as Gideon Mensah of Bordeaux and Mohammed Salisu of AS Monaco. They are supported by St. Gallen’s Stephan Ambrosius and emerging stars like Ebenezer Annan (Red Star Belgrade), Aaron Essel (North Texas SC), Razak Simpson (Nations FC), Mamudu Kamaradini (Medeama SC), and Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland). The combination of European-based and domestic defenders underlines Addo’s commitment to nurturing depth across all positions.
In midfield, Sunderland’s Abdul Salis Samed makes a return to the national team setup. He is joined by the energetic Ibrahim Sulemana from Atalanta, Abu Francis and Lawrence Agyekum, both from Belgian side Cercle Brugge, and Majeed Ashimeru of Anderlecht. Also included are Barcelona Atletic’s rising star Abdul Aziz Issah and Genk’s Christopher Baah Bonsu, whose creativity and pace could be game-changing for the Black Stars.
Leading the attack is veteran forward Jordan Ayew, currently at Leicester City, bringing leadership and composure to the frontline. He is supported by the lively Thomas-Asante (Coventry City), Juventus Next Gen striker Felix Afena Gyan, Asante Kotoko’s Kwame Poku, and Union Saint-Gilloise winger Mohammed Gadafi Fuseini, all expected to provide pace, power, and precision in the final third.
The Black Stars’ clash with Nigeria is more than just a semifinal; it is a renewal of one of Africa’s fiercest football rivalries. The winner of the tie will advance to the final on Saturday, May 31, 2025, to face either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago, with that match set for 12:30 GMT.
With several key players like André Ayew and Mohammed Kudus absent from this squad, Otto Addo is placing his faith in new faces and in-form performers. This tournament not only offers a shot at silverware but also serves as a platform for emerging talent to stake their claim in the Black Stars’ future
