The Black Stars' camp has been hit by a wave of unexpected injury setbacks just days ahead of their high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. What was anticipated to be a full-strength lineup for the blockbuster showdown against Côte d'Ivoire and the subsequent encounter with The Gambia has been disrupted by the withdrawal of four frontline players.

Heading the list of high-profile absentees is forward Antoine Semenyo. The attacker was forced to pull out of the squad after reporting with a persistent and swollen ankle, prompting the medical team to rule him out of action to undergo proper rehabilitation and further assessments.

Adding to the attacking deficit, dynamic playmaker Mohammed Kudus has also been excused from international duty. Kudus withdrew to continue his recovery from an ongoing injury concern sustained during club competition, depriving the Black Stars of their primary creative hub in midfield.

The defensive unit has not been spared either. Center-back Nathaniel Adjei was ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury during domestic league duties for FC Lorient against Le Mans over the weekend. Meanwhile, experienced defender Baba Abdul Rahman traveled to camp to be evaluated by the medical staff, but post-arrival assessments confirmed he is not match-fit to take part in the upcoming qualification window.

With four regular starters unavailable, the technical team faces an urgent tactical reshuffle. The spotlight now shifts squarely onto the fringe players and late call-ups, who must rise to the occasion and deliver vital points to keep Ghana's qualification campaign on solid ground.