Kofi Kyereh, Thomas-Asante and Kim Lars Arrive in Ghana Ahead of Crucial Black Stars Matches

The arrival of several familiar faces at the Accra International Airport has raised fresh interest in the Black Stars’ preparations for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Somalia. Among those spotted were forward Brandon Thomas-Asante, midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh, interim head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and goalkeeper Joseph Anang.

Their arrival comes at a difficult moment for Ghana’s senior national team, which urgently needs to improve its performance after losing its opening two matches in the qualifying campaign. For many supporters, the upcoming double-header is more than just another international assignment. It is an opportunity for the Black Stars to prove that they can still compete strongly and keep their hopes of reaching the tournament alive.

Kyereh’s presence has attracted particular attention because of the long period he has spent away from the national team. The midfielder suffered a serious knee injury in February 2023 while training with German club SC Freiburg. His recovery kept him away from competitive football for a considerable period, but he has gradually returned to action.

Reports indicate that he has made an encouraging start at VfL Osnabrück, recording two goals and one assist in nine appearances. His possible return could provide the team with another creative option in midfield, especially at a time when Ghana needs players capable of making a difference in important matches.

Thomas-Asante’s arrival has also attracted attention as the technical team prepares to assess its available attacking options. Goalkeeper Joseph Anang is another player whose presence could become important as the team prepares for the two encounters.

However, one issue supporters should not overlook is that being spotted at the airport does not automatically confirm a player’s inclusion in the final squad or guarantee a starting position. The Ghana Football Association had not yet announced the complete squad as of Monday, November 9. The players’ arrival is therefore an indication that preparations are gathering pace, but official confirmation remains important.

Kim Lars Björkegren is leading the interim technical team, which also includes Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram as assistant coaches, with Fatawu Dauda serving as goalkeepers’ coach. The temporary arrangement was introduced after Ghana’s disappointing start to the qualifiers and the departure of Carlos Queiroz.

The Black Stars lost 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire before suffering a painful 4-2 defeat to The Gambia, despite taking a two-goal lead in that match. Those results have left Ghana at the bottom of Group C without a point.