Ghana defender Gideon Mensah cannot participate in the Black Stars’ 2023 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar because of an injury. Mensah, who arrived at the camp on Monday and trained at the Accra Sports Stadium, unfortunately brought a knee injury. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed Mensah had been ruled out of the upcoming game upon assessment. Dr. Prince Pambo, the Black Stars team medical head, stated Mensah had sustained the knee injury during the season. Although his club managed it conservatively until the end of the season, it was decided to excuse him from the match to avoid worsening the injury. The medical team expects Mensah to have a sufficient rest during the break and recover in time for the next season.
The Black Stars squad has already seen two withdrawals, with Hafiz Konkoni and Kassim Nuhu stepping in for the injured Inaki Williams and Alexander Djiku. Mensah’s absence makes Ghana coach Chris Hughton decide whether to invite a replacement or stick with the current squad.
Mensah’s injury allows Patrick Kpozo to start the game against Madagascar. The Black Stars, aiming to maintain their top position in Group E of the qualifiers, will travel to Madagascar on June 18, 2023. Group E also includes Angola and the Central African Republic, and Hughton’s side currently holds the top spot.
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Source: Omanghana.com