2026 World Cup: Lawrence Ati-Zigi starts ahead of Benjamin Asare in Ghana’s starting XI for Wales friendly

Carlos Queiroz has named his first starting line-up as Ghana head coach ahead of the pre-2026 FIFA World Cup friendly against Wales, which kicks off at 6:45 GMT at the Cardiff Stadium on Tuesday.

The Portuguese tactician’s selection offers an early indication of his tactical direction as he begins shaping the Black Stars ahead of next year’s global tournament.

Lawrence Ati-Zigi has been handed the goalkeeper’s role, marking a notable decision in a position that had previously been considered settled under former coach Otto Addo.

Benjamin Asare, who had been viewed as the established first-choice going into the World Cup cycle, is left out of the starting XI.

In defence, Gideon Mensah starts at left-back while Marvin Senaya is deployed on the right side. The central defensive pairing consists of Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey, forming what Queiroz appears to view as a physically balanced and mobile back line for the encounter in Cardiff.

The midfield setup features a double pivot of Thomas Partey and Elisha Owusu, providing both defensive protection and progression from deep. Partey’s inclusion adds experience and control, while Owusu is expected to offer energy and ball-winning support in the middle of the pitch.

Ahead of them, Ghana will operate with an attacking trio of Jordan Ayew, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Fatawu Issahaku, supporting lone striker Prince Adu Kwabena. The configuration suggests a fluid front line designed to exploit pace and movement in transition.

Ghana will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 before facing England and Croatia in Group L.