Players of the Black Stars before a game

The Black Stars of Ghana have named their starting lineup for Wednesday night’s crucial Unity Cup semifinal clash against long-time rivals Nigeria at the GTech Community Stadium in Brentford.

With key players such as Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, Kamal Deen Sulemana, and Inaki Williams unavailable, head coach Otto Addo has opted for a youthful yet spirited eleven to represent Ghana in one of African football’s most storied rivalries.

Benjamin Asare starts in goal, with a defensive line comprising Gideon Mensah, Stephan Ambrosius, Aaron Essel, Mamudu Kamaradini and Razak Simpson.

Otto Addo has trusted 18-year-old Aaron Essel to step up in the heart of defence, making his first senior start against a strong Nigerian side.

In midfield, Majeed Ashimeru and Abdul Samed Salis provide a combination of grit and ball progression.

Christopher Bonsu Baah, one of Ghana’s most promising attacking prospects, starts in an advanced role, hoping to provide the creative spark needed to break down Nigeria’s defence.

Captain Jordan Ayew leads the line in attack, partnered by the industrious Kwame Opoku. Ayew’s experience and composure will be crucial in guiding a relatively inexperienced side through what promises to be an intense encounter.

The bench includes the likes of Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Anasq Joseph, Ebenezer Annan, Caleb Yirenkyi, Abu Francis, Abdul Aziz Issah, Lawrence Agyekum, Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Fuseini Mohammed, many of whom will be eager to make their mark if called upon.

The last competitive meeting between the sides came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs, where Ghana qualified for Qatar on away goals after a 1-1 draw in Abuja.

Now, at the 2025 Unity Cup, both sides are looking to assert dominance once again. For Ghana, the match is not only about reaching the final but also about avenging a 2-1 loss to Nigeria in a friendly last year.

Otto Addo has already overseen victories in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar, and a win tonight would add momentum to the Black Stars' resurgence.

Kickoff is at 19:45 GMT at the GTech Community Stadium, home of Premier League side Brentford FC.

FKA/MA

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