Ghana head coach Otto Addo has revealed the reasons behind his decision to include 20-year-old Basel defender Jonas Adjei Adjetey in the Black Stars squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.
Adjetey was called up to replace Fenerbahçe defender Alexander Djiku, who sustained an injury just days before the international break.
The young centre-back, who earned his maiden call-up, has been training with the Black Stars ahead of their first match against Angola on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Baba Yara Stadium. Ghana will then travel to Berkane, Morocco, to face Niger in their second Group F fixture on September 9.
Explaining his decision, Addo stated, “Jonas had an extremely good season last year, especially in the last six months at Basel, and he started very well this season in Europe. We also monitor players in the local leagues, and Jonas is one of those we believe are close to the national team.”
He continued, “Jonas is very good at winning duels, he’s fast, tall, and excellent in one-on-one defensive situations. He has been impressive at Basel, and at just 20 years old, he has the potential to grow further. We’re delighted to have him here, and his performance in training has been outstanding.”
With Sudan having secured a 1-0 victory over Niger in their opening match under coach Kwesi Appiah, Ghana will be aiming to start their qualifiers strongly to keep pace in Group F.
The Black Stars are determined to secure early points as they push for qualification to Africa's premier football tournament.
