Sports News of Tuesday, 17 March 2026

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Best possible XI from latest Black Stars squad

Players of the Black Stars Players of the Black Stars

As Otto Addo continues shaping his team ahead of high-profile friendlies against Austria and Germany, the bigger question isn’t just about who made the squad but how Ghana can line up to get the very best out of the talent available.

Based on current form, fitness, and what each player brings tactically, this is the strongest XI the Black Stars can field right now.

In goal, Benjamin Asare has done more than just step in, he has taken ownership.

Week after week in the Ghana Premier League, he has shown sharp reflexes, authority in the air, and composure under pressure.

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His 11 clean sheets are not just numbers; they reflect a goalkeeper who communicates well with his defense and rarely makes costly errors.

Right now, he doesn’t look like someone ready to give up that number one spot anytime soon.

At right-back, Caleb Yirenkyi adds a modern twist to the role. Naturally comfortable in midfield, he doesn’t just overlap, he inverts, steps into central areas, and helps Ghana control possession.

That tactical flexibility allows Ghana to shift shapes mid-game without making substitutions.

Defensively, he’s disciplined, but it’s his ability to support attacks and recycle possession that gives him the edge.

On the left side, Gideon Mensah remains a constant. Even with Auxerre battling relegation, he has quietly put together a consistent run of performances.

Playing over 20 games in a tough European league has sharpened his defensive awareness, and his recovery pace remains one of his biggest strengths.

For Ghana, he’s not just dependable, he’s predictable in the best way possible.

The center-back pairing may not be the most glamorous, but it is built on understanding.

Alexander Djiku is the heartbeat of the defense, aggressive, vocal, and fearless. He reads danger early and is the type to throw himself into challenges others would avoid.

Alongside him, Jonas Adjetey represents the future. His move to Wolfsburg came off the back of strong performances in Switzerland, and he has shown he can adapt quickly.

Calm on the ball and physically strong, he complements Djiku’s intensity with composure.

In midfield, the pairing of Thomas Partey and Kwasi Sibo is more about balance than brilliance.

Partey, even in a stop-start season, remains Ghana’s most experienced midfielder.

His positional awareness, ability to dictate tempo, and knack for breaking lines with passes are qualities few in the squad possess.

Sibo, on the other hand, does the dirty work. He is not there to create headlines, he is there to win tackles, disrupt opposition rhythm, and provide a shield in front of the defense.

Together, they form a partnership that allows others to attack with freedom.

Further forward, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku brings excitement. His numbers, 9 goals and 7 assists in the Championship, tell only part of the story.

He is direct, fearless, and always looking to take on defenders. Whether cutting inside or stretching play wide, he gives Ghana unpredictability.

Operating in the number 10 role, Jordan Ayew offers intelligence over flair. He may not be a traditional playmaker, but his experience allows him to read the game well.

He drops deep to link play, holds up the ball when needed, and creates space for others. In a squad without a natural creator, his adaptability becomes crucial.

On the other flank, Antoine Semenyo is in the form of his life. Fifteen Premier League goals is no fluke, it reflects a player full of confidence, power, and belief.

He drives at defenders, takes risks, and has developed a clinical edge in front of goal. Right now, he looks like Ghana’s most dangerous attacking outlet.

Leading the line is Brandon Thomas-Asante, a forward who thrives on movement and instinct.

His 11 goals in the Championship highlight his ability to be in the right place at the right time.

He presses from the front, links play effectively, and offers a constant goal threat without needing too many touches.

This XI may not be filled with global superstars, but it has something equally important, clarity in roles, balance across the pitch, and players who understand what is required of them.

If Otto Addo can get them to click, Ghana will not just compete, they will be a difficult side to break down and an even harder one to stop.

FKA/JE

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