Black Stars return a dream come true after four-year absence – Daniel Kofi Kyereh

Midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh has described his return to the Black Stars as a dream come true after making his first appearance for Ghana in almost four years.

The 30-year-old midfielder came off the bench in the 75th minute of Ghana’s 2-0 victory over Somalia in the first leg of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header on Thursday at the Essipong Sports Stadium.

Kyereh replaced captain Jordan Ayew, marking his first appearance for the senior national team since December 2022, when he featured for Ghana at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

His return represents a significant milestone after a lengthy absence from international football, which was largely caused by an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained in February 2023 during training with German club SC Freiburg.

The injury required an extended rehabilitation period, disrupting his progress at both club and international levels and keeping him away from the Black Stars for an extended period.

However, the midfielder remained determined to overcome the setback, working his way back to full fitness and hoping to earn another opportunity with the national team.

Speaking on Sunday ahead of Ghana’s return fixture against Somalia on Monday at the same venue, Kyereh expressed his excitement at being back in the Black Stars fold.

“I was working hard and looking forward to coming back to the Black Stars, and it’s a dream come true to be called up again,” he said.

Kyereh’s return to international football follows an encouraging spell with German side Osnabrück, where he has gradually rebuilt his match fitness and regained his place in competitive football.

He has made nine appearances this season, contributing two goals and one assist as he continues his efforts to rediscover his best form.

His return provides another option for interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren as Ghana seek to build on their victory over Somalia and revive their campaign to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.