The highly anticipated Group F derby of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations is set to kick off at 8 PM GMT, with both teams announcing their official lineups. Ghana has chosen an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to dominate possession and create chances through their forward line. Star striker Asamoah Gyan will start on the bench, but the team fields a strong starting eleven led by the Ayew brothers. Thomas Partey and Mubarak Wakaso anchor the midfield, while André Ayew and Albert Adomah (listed as Agyepong) support Christian Atsu in the attacking trio behind the lone striker, Jordan Ayew. Defensively, Ofori guards the goal, protected by a back four of Yiadom, Boye, Nuhu Adams, and Lumor Agbenyenu.
Benin, returning to the Africa Cup of Nations after a nine-year absence, has opted for a cautious 5-4-1 formation to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. Captain Steve Mounié leads the line for the Squirrels, while the five-man defense provides extra cover. Jordan Adéoti and Michael Poté add experience in midfield alongside Soukou and Sessi D’Almeida. Notably, Benin will be without Sésségnon due to suspension, and Jodel Dossou starts on the bench, placing the responsibility of leadership on Mounié and his teammates. Farnolle guards the goal, with defenders Imorou, Olivier Verdon, Khaled Adénon, Adiléhou, and Baraze forming a compact backline.
This clash promises to be a tactical battle: Ghana will rely on attacking flair and quick combinations, while Benin aims to frustrate the Black Stars and exploit spaces on the counter-attack. With both teams eager to secure their first points in the group, fans can expect a high-intensity encounter full of strategic play, key individual battles, and the pressure of West African rivalry.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8 PM GMT, with all eyes on the Ismailia Stadium as the Squirrels take on the Black Stars in this crucial Group F encounter.
