2027 AFCONQ: Black Stars selection for Somalia games will be based on quality, not league – Ibrahim Tanko

Interim Black Stars assistant coach Ibrahim Tanko says player selection for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Somalia will be based solely on quality and suitability, rather than the league or country in which players compete.

The technical team, led by head coach Kim Lars Björkegren, is expected to announce its squad this week for the crucial Matchday 3 and 4 fixtures later this month.

Tanko, who also coaches Ghana Premier League side Medeama SC, insists the technical team will not favour foreign-based players over those playing in the domestic league as it seeks to assemble a squad capable of turning Ghana’s qualifying campaign around.

“There is no Ghana Premier League player or foreign player; we are looking at the best players that can help Ghana,” Tanko said after Medeama’s 1-1 draw against Asante Kotoko on Sunday.

“If ten local players we think can help, then why not,” he added.

Ghana are preparing for a doubleheader against Somalia, with the first encounter scheduled for November 12 and the return fixture set for November 16. Both matches are expected to be played in Ghana.

The Black Stars head into the fixtures under pressure after losing their opening two Group C matches.

They began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat against Ivory Coast in Bouaké before suffering a disappointing 4-2 loss to The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium, despite taking a two-goal lead.

Those results have left Ghana bottom of Group C without a point from their opening two matches, making the upcoming encounters against Somalia crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the tournament.

The Black Stars are also seeking a return to the continental showpiece after missing the 2025 AFCON in Morocco following a disappointing qualifying campaign.

With qualification hopes already under pressure, the interim technical team will be looking to identify the right blend of players as Ghana attempt to revive their campaign and avoid another major setback.