Ghana’s preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign has suffered a major setback following the sudden withdrawal of key forward Antoine Semenyo.

The 26-year-old’s departure comes just two days before the Black Stars’ highly anticipated opening clash against regional rivals Côte d'Ivoire, throwing head coach Carlos Queiroz’s tactical plans into disarray.

As one of Ghana's most in-form attackers in Europe this season, Semenyo’s absence leaves a massive void in the national team's forward line at a critical juncture.

The decision for Antoine Semenyo to pull out of the 24-man Black Stars squad for the September-October international window stems from a swollen ankle injury.

First reported by sports journalist Owuraku Ampofo via 3Sports, the news was confirmed with the statement: EXCLUSIVE:

Ghana will be without Antoine Semenyo for the September-October international window after the Manchester City forward withdrew from the squad.

The injury interrupts a stellar start to the club season for the former Bournemouth versatile attacker, who has recorded two goals and three assists in five Premier League appearances for Manchester City.

Semenyo’s withdrawal adds to an already alarming injury crisis confronting coach Carlos Queiroz.

He becomes the third high-profile player ruled out of the squad, joining Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Mohammed Kudus—who opted out to continue his recovery at Enfield—and defender Nathaniel Adjei on the sidelines.

The loss of three vital starters severely tests the squad’s tactical depth as the team prepares to face a formidable Ivorian side in what is widely considered the toughest fixture of the qualifying group.

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With pressure mounting on the Black Stars to deliver results, Queiroz and his coaching staff must quickly reorganize their offensive setup and look to alternative options to supply the creativity and goalscoring power lost in the absence of Semenyo and Kudus.

Antoine Semenyo’s last-minute withdrawal due to an ankle injury presents a tough test for Ghana as they kick off their AFCON 2027.

#Antoine Semenyo injury #Black Stars AFCON 2027 qualifiers #Ghana vs Ivory Coast #Carlos Queiroz