Black Stars’ player ratings as Kudus shines, Adjetey and Afena-Gyan impress against Somalia

Ghana reignited their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a deserved 2-0 victory over Somalia at the Essipong Sports Stadium in Sekondi-Takoradi on Thursday.

Goals from Jonas Adjei Adjetey and Felix Afena-Gyan secured the Black Stars’ first points in Group C, ending a five-match winless run and handing interim head coach Kim Lars Björkegren a winning start.

Below are the player ratings from Ghana’s victory:

Benjamin Asare – 6.8Had little to do for most of the afternoon but remained alert whenever called upon, making the routine stops required to preserve Ghana’s clean sheet.

Alidu Seidu – 7.2Delivered an energetic performance at right-back, defending solidly while offering an attacking outlet with several dangerous forward runs.

Gideon Mensah – 6.9Produced a disciplined display on the left flank, combining defensive stability with useful attacking support.

Jonas Adjei Adjetey – 7.8An outstanding performance at the heart of defence, crowned with the opening goal. Formed an excellent partnership with Salisu throughout the match.

Mohammed Salisu – 7.4Looked composed and commanding on his return, helping Ghana keep Somalia’s attack quiet with a series of timely interventions.

Thomas Partey – 7.6Controlled proceedings in midfield with his passing, positioning and leadership, providing the platform for Ghana’s dominance.

Caleb Yirenkyi – 7.5Another composed display from the young midfielder, whose energy and ball retention stood out throughout the contest.

Fatawu Issahaku – 7.3A constant threat down the wing, using his pace and trickery to stretch the Somali defence.

Felix Afena-Gyan – 7.7Rewarded an energetic performance with a well-taken goal and remained a lively presence in the attacking third.

Jordan Ayew – 6.2Missed an early penalty and struggled to impose himself consistently, though he continued to work hard for the team.

Mohammed Kudus – 8.4 (Man of the Match)The game’s standout performer. Kudus dictated Ghana’s attacking play, created numerous openings and provided the assist for Afena-Gyan’s goal in another influential display.

Ibrahim Sulemana – 6.6Adapted well after coming on and slotted comfortably into an unfamiliar defensive role.

Daniel Kofi Kyereh – 6.7Showed glimpses of his creativity and technical quality in an encouraging return to Black Stars action.

Brandon Thomas-Asante – 6.3Worked hard off the ball and linked play effectively despite limited opportunities in front of goal.

Prince Kwabena Adu – 6.4Made intelligent runs and kept the Somali defence occupied after his introduction.

Rahim Ibrahim – 6.5Enjoyed a composed debut, moving the ball well and helping Ghana maintain control during the closing stages.