2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Mohammed Kudus withdraws from Ghana squad for Ivory Coast and Gambia games

Mohammed Kudus has withdrawn from Ghana’s squad for this month’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers as he continues his recovery from a long-term injury.

The Tottenham Hotspur forward had been included in Carlos Queiroz’s 24-man squad for the opening qualifying matches against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, as well as a planned international friendly against Morocco.

Kudus missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup because of injury and has only recently returned to action for Spurs after spending around seven months on the sidelines.

The 26-year-old has made five appearances for the Premier League side this season as he gradually works his way back to full fitness.

Reports indicate that the attacker has opted to withdraw from the national team squad to focus on his recovery, with Ghana’s technical team expected to name a replacement in the coming days.

Kudus remains one of the Black Stars’ most influential attacking players, making his absence a significant setback as Ghana begin their bid to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.

Ghana open their qualifying campaign away to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

The Black Stars will then travel to Morocco for a friendly against the Atlas Lions on 4 October.

Queiroz’s side are aiming to secure a return to the AFCON finals after failing to qualify for the last edition in Morocco.