Ghana's World Cup Journey and Key Figures
Ghana's path to the World Cup has been eventful, marked by a coaching change just 72 days before the tournament began. After Otto Addo's departure due to a series of unfavorable results, Carlos Queiroz, an experienced coach with five consecutive World Cup appearances, stepped in. His tenure began positively with a late victory over Panama, igniting aspirations for the team's first knockout stage appearance since their impressive quarter-final run in 2010.
Antoine Semenyo: The Premier League Star
Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo, 26, is a prominent figure in the Ghanaian squad. Despite scoring 17 goals across spells at Bournemouth and Manchester City in the 2025-26 Premier League season, and helping his club win two trophies, his international goal tally for Ghana stands at a modest three goals in 35 caps. Known for his two-footed ability, Semenyo has shown versatility across both wings at club level, making his limited international scoring record a notable anomaly.
Caleb Yirenkyi: Midfield Dynamo
Nordsjaelland's 20-year-old midfielder, Caleb Yirenkyi, is a highly sought-after young talent in Europe. He made a significant impact by scoring a 94th-minute winner in Ghana's opening match against Panama. Coach Queiroz has reinstated Yirenkyi to his preferred midfield role, where he excels in winning possession in the opposition's final third and making successful passes. A former national robot-building champion, Yirenkyi's intelligence extends beyond the pitch.
Jordan Ayew: The Experienced Leader
Forward/attacking midfielder Jordan Ayew, 34, made history in Ghana's opening match against Panama by becoming the country's record cap holder with 121 appearances, surpassing his brother Andre. As captain, Ayew follows in the footsteps of his legendary father Abedi Pele and his brother. He has been in strong scoring form for his country, netting 14 times in his last 22 caps, including a hat-trick in World Cup qualifying. Despite a less prolific season with Leicester City, Ayew remains a crucial asset for Ghana.
Brandon Thomas-Asante: Impact Sub
Coventry City's versatile forward, Brandon Thomas-Asante, 27, earned his place in Ghana's World Cup squad after a strong season where he scored 13 goals in the Championship. Born in Milton Keynes, Thomas-Asante quickly made an impact in Ghana's opening game against Panama, coming off the bench to assist Caleb Yirenkyi's winning goal. He is also known for his engaging dance moves, which have gained viral attention.
Kamaldeen Sulemana: Blazing Speed
Atalanta winger Kamaldeen Sulemana, 24, holds the distinction of being the fastest player at the Qatar World Cup, clocking 22.2mph. Praised by former teammates for his incredible speed and dribbling skills, Sulemana can play across the frontline. However, questions have been raised about his end product, as he has only scored once in 29 caps for Ghana and last netted for his club in February.
Source: Who are the Ghana players England should look out for?