Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has announced a 26-man squad for the decisive final matches in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

The squad was unveiled at the Ghana Football Association Conference Room and features notable exclusions and surprising inclusions as Ghana fights to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Andre Ayew, despite recent playing time with Ligue 1 club Le Havre, remains absent from the lineup.

Captain Thomas Partey, who has been in excellent form at Arsenal and recently earned an October Player of the Month nomination, is also a surprising omission.

Brendan Thomas-Asante of Coventry City, who has struggled to secure a regular starting position since his debut call-up, is another notable absentee.

Mohammed Salisu of AS Monaco is also left out, reportedly due to injury, while Majeed Ashimeru is not included this time.

The squad does, however, introduce new home-based players, including Isaac Afful from FC Samartex. Nations FC captain Razak Simpson and Asante Kotoko midfielder Emmanuel Antwi make their debuts, adding fresh talent to the team.

With only two points from their first four matches, including two draws and two losses, Ghana currently sits third in Group F, trailing behind Sudan and group leaders Angola.

Qualification for AFCON 2025 appears difficult, but Ghana’s chances hinge on winning their upcoming matches and hoping for favorable outcomes from other games.

The Black Stars will first face Angola on November 15 in Luanda and will then play their final qualifier against Niger on November 18 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Victories in both matches are crucial, as Ghana seeks to overcome early setbacks and secure a spot in the tournament.