IF Elfsborg defender Terry Yegbe earned his first cap for Ghana’s Black Stars in their 2-1 loss to Niger during the final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Monday.
The 23-year-old, making his debut on the international stage, started in defence and delivered a composed performance. His positioning and calmness under pressure were evident, and he was not directly at fault for either of Niger’s goals.
While Yegbe held his ground in the backline, some observers questioned his leadership during pivotal moments of the match. As one of the more experienced players in a team featuring three debutants, expectations were high for him to provide greater defensive organization, particularly during set pieces—a recurring weakness for the Black Stars throughout the qualifiers.
However, considering Yegbe’s youth and his limited exposure to international football, there is optimism that he can grow into a more commanding presence in future games.
He was substituted in the 79th minute for Medeama’s Kamaradini Mamudu, who also made his international debut.
Yegbe’s debut came amidst a disappointing campaign for the Black Stars, who finished bottom of Group F, missing out on AFCON 2025. Despite the team’s struggles, his performance offered a glimpse of promise for Ghana’s defensive future.
As the team rebuilds, Yegbe’s inclusion signals a commitment to integrating young talent into the national setup, with hopes that players like him will help steer Ghana back to its former heights.
