Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah has named his starting XI for their opening Group F clash against the Squirrels of Benin tonight in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

The 58 year old gaffer has handed starts to three tournament debutants in Lumor Agbeyenu, Kasim Nuhu and Thomas Agyepong.

It looks like Appiah has opted for a 4-3-3 formation with Mubarak Wakaso, Thomas Partey and skipper Andre Ayew in midfield.

While Jordan Ayew, Christian Atsu and Agyepong are the preferred trio to lead Ghana’s attack.

Inter Milan ace Kwadwo Asamoah and the country's all-time top scorer Asamoah Gyan are the surprise exclusions from the list.

The match will be played at the Ismailia Stadium at 20:00 GMT after the Group opener between Cameroon and Guinea Bissau.

Ghana's starting XI to face Benin:

Richard Ofori
Andy Yiadom
Lumor Agbeyenu
John Boye
Kasim Nuhu
Mubarak Wakaso
Thomas Partey
Thomas Agyepong
Christian Atsu
Andre Ayew
Jordan Ayew