The Black Stars’ preparations for their highly anticipated international friendly against South Korea have taken a major hit, as forwards Antoine Semenyo and defender Mohammed Salisu have both withdrawn from camp due to injury. Their exit delivers yet another blow to coach Otto Addo, who is already wrestling with a growing list of injury concerns in the Ghana squad.
The two players, who were expected to play crucial roles in Ghana’s upcoming fixture, have now returned to their respective clubs after medical evaluations revealed they were unfit to participate in the friendly. Their absence not only disrupts tactical plans but also deepens concerns about squad depth as Ghana prepares for competitive fixtures in early 2026.
Semenyo’s Setback: A Painful Repeat at the Worst Time
Antoine Semenyo, one of Ghana’s most in-form forwards in Europe, sustained a left anterior talo-fibula ligament sprain during Ghana’s recent Kirin Challenge Cup clash against Japan. The Bournemouth attacker was substituted in the 55th minute after going down awkwardly during a duel.
Attempts by the medical team to accelerate his recovery proved unsuccessful. After further evaluations, the GFA confirmed that Semenyo had been granted permission to fly back to England to begin full treatment and rehabilitation with his club.
Semenyo’s injury is particularly painful for the national team considering his rise in form. His versatility, work rate, and newfound confidence in the English Premier League have made him one of Ghana’s brightest attacking sparks. As the Black Stars introduce new attacking combinations and attempt to rebuild a more fluid frontline, losing Semenyo disrupts the momentum they were building.
Salisu’s Withdrawal: A Defensive Void Deepens
Mohammed Salisu’s absence comes as an equally heavy blow. The AS Monaco defender has struggled with recurring fitness issues this year, and hopes of his return for the South Korea game have now been dashed.
Medical checks carried out jointly by Monaco’s medical team and the Black Stars’ doctors revealed that Salisu is suffering from a bilateral MCL (medial collateral ligament) sprain, ruling him out of action for the upcoming friendly. The centre-back subsequently departed the camp to continue treatment at his club.
For Ghana, Salisu’s withdrawal exposes a thin defensive line that has already faced instability in recent matches. His composure, aerial dominance, and left-footed balance would have been key assets against a dynamic South Korean attack known for speed and movement.
His continuous injury setbacks also raise questions about long-term reliability as Ghana looks ahead to the next round of World Cup qualifiers—a campaign where defensive solidity will be non-negotiable.
Growing Injury List Leaves Otto Addo With Just 19 Fit Players
With Semenyo and Salisu departing, and midfielder Francis Abu already ruled out following surgery for his own injury in the Japan game, Otto Addo is left with just 19 fit players in Seoul.
This is far from ideal as the Black Stars attempt to rotate, test new strategies, and integrate new faces into the squad. Friendlies like this are crucial for experimentation, especially in a year where Ghana aims to rebuild confidence after mixed performances.
The coaching team must now reshuffle roles, rethink tactical setups, and manage player fitness carefully to avoid further damage.
Why This Friendly Matters—Despite Being “Just” a Friendly
While some fans may see the match against South Korea as a routine international fixture, its significance is deeper.
1. Tactical Building Block for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Ghana’s qualifying journey resumes soon, and international friendlies serve as essential testing grounds for systems, partnerships, and new ideas.
2. Boosting Morale and Restoring Confidence
After a turbulent year with inconsistent performances, Ghana is keen on restoring belief both within the squad and among fans.
3. Assessing Squad Depth
Injury situations such as this one provide an opportunity—albeit a difficult one—for fringe players to show readiness.
Opportunities for Fringe Players
The absence of key names opens up chances for several newcomers and returning players. Defensively, Ghana may now rely on young centre-backs who have been waiting for their moment to prove themselves on the international stage. In attack, a reshuffled frontline may see a combination of emerging talents and seasoned campaigners filling in.
These setbacks, while unfortunate, could become valuable moments for lesser-known players to break into the core setup.
A Broader Question: Are Ghana’s Players Overloaded?
Semenyo’s and Salisu’s injuries reignite conversations around player workload. Many national team regulars are central to their clubs’ campaigns in Europe, playing high-intensity football almost every three days.
This raises questions:
Are Ghana’s best players being overworked at club level? How can the national team manage heavy workloads during international breaks? Do Ghanaian players need specialized injury prevention programs?
With modern football placing extraordinary physical demands on athletes, national teams like Ghana must innovate to protect their key players.
The Road Ahead
Despite the setbacks, the Black Stars will still face South Korea with optimism and determination. The match provides a platform for Ghana to test teamwork, mentality, and ambition against a well-organized opponent.
However, the coaching staff will be keeping a close eye on the injury list. With important qualifiers approaching, Ghana cannot afford more losses in key positions.
For Semenyo and Salisu, the immediate priority is recovery. Fans will be hoping they return stronger—because when fit, they are two of the most influential players in Ghana’s setup.
The Black Stars may be weakened on paper, but the spirit, hunger, and opportunity for new heroes remain alive.
