Alexander Djiku and Joseph Paintsil will be unavailable for Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad but are expected to feature in the subsequent fixture against Mali.
The pair, who were both included in the squad for the double-header, were unable to join the team in Accra before the Black Stars departed for N’Djamena.
Paintsil arrived in Accra this morning after missing his connecting flight from New York to Accra, following a delayed departure from Los Angeles. Djiku, meanwhile, is currently in Moscow finalising a contract and is scheduled to arrive in Accra on Friday.
The absence of the duo is expected to be a significant setback for the Black Stars, as Djiku provides stability and leadership at the back, while Paintsil’s pace and creativity in attack have often proven decisive. However, the technical team remains confident that the depth of the squad will offer sufficient cover, with several capable replacements ready to step in for Thursday’s clash.
As it stands, the technical bench will work with 22 players for the encounter against Chad in N’Djamena on 4 September 2025.
