Ghana Announces Final 23-Man Squad for 2014 World Cup in Brazil
Ghana has officially confirmed its 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, just ahead of FIFA’s Monday deadline. The announcement follows a 1-0 defeat to the Netherlands in a preparatory friendly on Saturday that also saw a major setback with the injury to defender Jerry Akaminko.
Akaminko, who sustained a fractured left ankle during the match in Rotterdam, is among three players omitted from the final squad. Also excluded are attacker David Accam and versatile full-back Jeffery Schlupp. Head coach Kwesi Appiah has opted for a blend of experience and youth as the Black Stars gear up for a daunting Group G challenge against Germany, Portugal, and the United States.
As expected, key figures such as captain Asamoah Gyan, AC Milan’s Sulley Muntari, and Schalke’s Kevin-Prince Boateng have been retained. The influential Ayew brothers — André and Jordan — also make the cut, alongside rising star Abdul Majeed Waris.
In midfield, the squad boasts depth and quality with seasoned campaigners like Michael Essien, Rabiu Mohammed, and Kwadwo Asamoah, supported by dynamic wide players such as Christian Atsu and Wakaso Mubarak.
In goal, Fatau Dauda, Adam Kwarasey, and Stephen Adams will vie for the No. 1 jersey.
Final Ghana Squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup:
Goalkeepers:
Fatau Dauda
Adam Kwarasey
Stephen Adams
Defenders:
Samuel Inkoom
Daniel Opare
Harrison Afful
John Boye
Jonathan Mensah
Rashid Sumaila
Midfielders:
Michael Essien
Sulley Muntari
Rabiu Mohammed
Kwadwo Asamoah
Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu
Afriyie Acquah
Christian Atsu
Albert Adomah
André Ayew
Wakaso Mubarak
Forwards:
Asamoah Gyan (captain)
Kevin-Prince Boateng
Abdul Majeed Waris
Jordan Ayew
Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 against the United States, followed by clashes with Germany and Portugal in what is widely considered one of the toughest groups in the tournament. The Black Stars will be aiming to at least replicate their impressive 2010 quarter-final run and once again carry Africa’s hopes on the world stage.
