By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Ghana defender Alexander Djiku has been ruled out of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers due to a thigh injury. The 30-year-old Fenerbahce player sustained the injury during his club’s match against Alanyaspor, forcing him to limp off the field in the 61st minute. This unexpected setback is a huge blow for both Djiku and the Black Stars.
Subsequent medical examinations revealed that Djiku has suffered a Grade One strain in the quadriceps of his right thigh. The injury will require a recovery period of 10-14 days, effectively ruling him out of the crucial qualifiers against Angola and Niger. The timing of the injury could not be worse, as these matches are pivotal for Ghana’s campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Djiku was included in Otto Addo’s recently announced 23-man squad for the qualifiers. With his absence, the coach may have to consider a late replacement. Reports suggest that there is a standby list of players ready to step in, ensuring that the team remains competitive despite this setback.
Ghana is scheduled to face Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on September 5. This will be followed by another important match against Niger at Stade Municipal de Berkane on September 9. The team will need to adapt quickly to the absence of Djiku, who is a key figure in their defensive lineup.
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