Ghana’s quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been boosted with the addition of two debutants Kojo Oppong Peprah and Prince Owusu in Otto Addo’s 24-man Black Stars squad for the final round of qualifiers.
The Black Stars will face the Central African Republic and Comoros in crucial fixtures that will determine their ticket to the global stage.
Kojo Oppong Peprah: Rising Star from OGC Nice
Kojo Oppong Peprah, just 20 years old, plays for French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice and has been one of Ghana’s most impressive defenders in Europe this season.
A graduate of the Attram De Visser Soccer Academy, Peprah previously played for Swedish club IFK Norrköping before making his move to France. His performances in Ligue 1 have earned him a reputation for calm defending, excellent positioning, and composure on the ball.
Key Stats from Ligue 1 2025/2026 Season
7th in Ligue 1 for passes into the final third (40)
7th in progressive passes (39)
3rd in progressive carrying distance (1,070 yards)
8th in tackles won (10)
These stats highlight why Otto Addo has rewarded him with a Black Stars call-up ahead of Ghana’s decisive qualifiers.
Prince Owusu: Medeama SC Midfield Engine
Alongside Peprah, Prince Owusu of Medeama SC has also been handed his debut call-up. The midfielder has been one of the standout performers in the Ghana Premier League 2025/2026 season, showcasing creativity, vision, and consistency.
Owusu’s selection reflects Otto Addo’s strategy of balancing local-based talent with European stars, ensuring that Ghana has both experience and youthful hunger in midfield.
Ghana’s Crucial World Cup Fixtures
The Black Stars are currently top of Group I, with a three-point lead. They will need at least four points from their final two matches to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
October 8, 2025: Ghana vs Central African Republic (in Morocco)
October 12, 2025: Ghana vs Comoros (Accra Sports Stadium)
Building for the Future
Coach Otto Addo has emphasized the need to blend experienced players with young talents like Oppong Peprah and Owusu. Their inclusion highlights a forward-looking strategy as Ghana prepares not just for these qualifiers but also for future tournaments.
Fans will be eager to see whether these debutants can step up and help the Black Stars secure another appearance at the FIFA World Cup.