As Ghana prepare for the final qualification games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, head coach Otto Addo has turned to two fresh faces to reinforce his squad for the final hurdle.
OGC Nice defender, Kojo Peprah Oppong and Medeama’s Prince Owusu have earned their first senior call-ups, their names standing out in a 24-man list made up of familiar leaders and hungry contenders.
For Oppong, the call is the latest step in a fast-rising journey. The 21-year-old joined French side Nice in the summer from Swedish outfit Norrkoping, and in a few months, he has gone from a promising prospect to a reliable player in Francesco Farioli’s side.
He has already made six appearances in Ligue 1 this season, scoring once and averaging an impressive 7.2 performance rating according to Flashscore.
Black Stars squad revealed ahead of Central African Republic and Comoros Games
Earlier, he featured twice in the Champions League qualifiers, although Nice bowed out against Benfica.
Versatile across a back three, Oppong’s adaptability offers Otto Addo valuable depth in defense.
While Oppong has been carving his reputation in Europe, Prince Owusu has been rising steadily in Ghana’s domestic league.
The 20-year-old midfielder has been one of Medeama SC’s most consistent performers over the past year, building a reputation as a tireless runner with sharp ball-winning instincts and impressive technical discipline.
Last season, Owusu featured in 22 league matches, scoring once and assisting twice. He has carried his form into the new campaign with his performances in the Ghana Premier League.
Owusu’s early-season sharpness, coupled with his reliability across 90 minutes, ultimately earned him the nod from Otto Addo, making him just the second home-based player in this Black Stars squad.
The timing of these debut calls is significant. The Black Stars are on top of Group I with 19 points, three clear of second-placed Madagascar.
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