2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Ghana captain Andre Ayew left out of Black Stars squad for the second time running

Ghana coach Otto Addo has excluded captain Andre Ayew from his squad for the second time running ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Ayew was not involved in June when the Black Stars played Mali and Central Africa Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In his absence, the West Africa powerhouse recorded a back-to-back wins to revive their World Cup qualification chances.

For the second time in a row, Otto Addo has left out Andre Ayew as he releases his squad for the games against Angola and Niger.

Ayew’s latest omission could signal the end of his international career, given his status as Ghana’s most-capped player with 120 appearances and 24 goals.

Notable players like Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Salisu, Jordan Ayew and others have all been named in the squad.

This means Thomas Partey will lead the Black Stars in the first two games of the qualifiers due to Ayew’s absence.

The Black Stars will face Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium on September 5 before travelling to take on Niger in Morocco on September 9.

The AFCON qualifiers are crucial for the Black Stars, who are seeking to secure a spot in the tournament.

It is important to note that the two top countries from each group will secure automatic qualification to the CAF biggest competition on the continent.