Ghana Without John Boye for Crucial AFCON Qualifier Against Togo
Ghana will be without defender John Boye for their crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Togo on Wednesday in Lomé.
Boye sustained an ankle injury during training on Monday and has subsequently been withdrawn from the squad. Ibrahim Sannie-Daara, spokesperson for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), confirmed the setback, saying, “John injured his ankle in training on Monday. He is being monitored by doctors and has not traveled with the group to Lomé.”
The absence of the experienced centre-back is a significant blow for the Black Stars as they enter the second round of Group E qualifiers. Ghana were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at home against Uganda in their opening match and now face mounting pressure to secure a victory in Togo.
A defeat on Wednesday could severely damage Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the 2015 African Cup of Nations in Morocco, intensifying scrutiny on coach Kwesi Appiah, whose position is already reportedly under threat.
With Boye sidelined, Appiah is expected to field a defensive line featuring Mohamed Awal, currently playing for South Africa’s Maritzburg United, alongside Jonathan Mensah.
The match in Lomé takes on added significance as Ghana seek to avoid slipping further behind in a competitive group that also includes Guinea and Uganda. Every point counts as teams battle for a place at the continent’s premier football tournament.
Ghana’s coaching staff will be hoping the defensive adjustments do not unsettle the team’s balance, especially with Togo determined to capitalize on home advantage.
As the Black Stars prepare for what could be a pivotal encounter, all eyes will be on their ability to respond to adversity and keep their qualification hopes alive.
