Samartex left-back Isaac Afful made his debut for the Black Stars in Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to Niger in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Monday.
Afful, who started as a left wing-back, faced a tough initiation to international football.
The 25-year-old was substituted at halftime after a challenging first 45 minutes that saw him struggle to make a significant impact on the match.
Throughout the first half, Afful made a series of uncharacteristic errors, including moments where he lost possession and failed to impose himself defensively.
The mistakes, while disappointing, can likely be attributed to the pressure of making his senior debut in a high-stakes match for his country.
Making his first appearance at this level naturally came with nerves, and these early jitters appeared to affect his overall performance.
Despite the difficult start, the Black Stars’ technical team remains optimistic about Afful’s potential.
Having earned recognition for his consistent form at Samartex, his inclusion in the squad indicates the coaching staff’s belief in his abilities.
This match, though not the ideal debut, will undoubtedly serve as a valuable learning experience for Afful as he adapts to the demands of international football.
While the loss to Niger left Ghana bottom of Group F in the AFCON qualifiers, it offered a glimpse into the future, with new faces like Afful gaining vital exposure.
Ghana’s disappointing campaign may have ended with another setback, but the development of young players like Afful offers hope for the team’s long-term goals.
With more international experience, Afful is expected to grow and refine his skills, becoming an important part of the Black Stars’ future.
As the team rebuilds after their failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, the experience of debutants like Afful will be crucial for Ghana’s next chapter in African football.
