Ghana head coach Otto Addo is facing a growing selection dilemma after several young players delivered standout performances against Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago at the Unity Cup in London. What began as an opportunity for fringe players to impress has quickly evolved into a serious competition for spots in the senior Black Stars squad.
Brandon Thomas-Asante, Mohammed Fuseini, and Lawrence Agyekum were among the top performers, showing maturity, creativity, and tactical sharpness that caught the attention of scouts and technical staff alike. Their performances come at a crucial time, with Ghana preparing for key 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
With pressure mounting to rebuild after a disappointing AFCON qualifiers, Addo now faces the challenge of blending promising youth with experienced regulars like Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew.
“Like I said before, it’s a big chance for a lot of players. We have a lot of newcomers in the national team who were able to show themselves in the last game,” said the 49-year-old tactician in an interview with Ghanafa.org. “It’s a very good possibility for them to make life hard for me when choosing who will come for our next World Cup qualifiers in September.
“I’ve been following them for a long time and they have exhibited top qualities, which is why I invited them. From the first time I was appointed in 2021, we started that process. We were able to convince players such as Antoine Semenyo, Tariq Lamptey and Inaki Williams.”
“Surely, if anybody is of Ghanaian descent, it’s always interesting for us. We observe them and try to get in touch to see if they are available. The more successful we are, the more appealing we become. Players want to play for teams that are doing well,” he added.
Having chosen to represent Ghana over Germany during his playing days, Addo acknowledged the complex decisions facing dual-nationality players. He noted that while proper guidance is given before any allegiance switch, the Black Stars remain open to all eligible talent.
“It’s not easy to break into the national teams of their countries of birth and it's not easy to play for Ghana either. But surely, we are always open to any player of Ghanaian descent who wants to play for Ghana.”
Addo gave special mention to Brandon Thomas-Asante, praising him for both his goal against Nigeria and his strong attitude and tireless work rate.
“Brandon is a very good person with great character. He always gives everything. But I find it hard to focus only on the goal-scorers. Others also played key roles — the ones who assisted, defended or contributed in the buildup,” he stated.
The Unity Cup may have just reshaped Ghana’s selection conversation—and Otto Addo must now decide whether to play it safe or trust the rising stars.
By: Pascal Amoah
