2026 World Cup: Carlos Queiroz explains Alexander Djiku's replacement as Black Stars adjust plans

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has explained the decision to replace defender Alexander Djiku ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting Ghana remain confident in their defensive options despite the setback.

Djiku was initially included in Ghana’s provisional squad for the tournament but is now expected to miss the competition due to injury. The experienced centre-back, who joined the team’s training camp in Cardiff last week, has been unable to participate in training sessions with his teammates.

Speaking to the media ahead of Ghana’s international friendly against Wales on Tuesday, June 2, Queiroz confirmed that the technical team had taken the difficult decision to replace the defender.

"We have to make a decision and replace Djiku. It doesn't matter who the player that I called was; Djiku was replaced.

"Now we're in the same group of central backs in camp. The names you know, you saw them today on the pitch. So we're ready to take off."

In response to Djiku’s absence, Ghana have handed a call-up to Pafos defender Derrick Luckassen, who recently received his first invitation to the senior national team.

Luckassen’s arrival offers additional depth to the Black Stars' defence as preparations intensify for the World Cup, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.

Following the clash with Wales, Ghana are scheduled to face Jamaica on June 10 as part of their final preparations before the tournament.

The Black Stars, preparing for their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance, have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.

Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia on June 27.

The four-time African champions will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.