Arsenal star Thomas Partey has been appointed as the captain for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Mali and the Central African Republic, marking a significant return for the midfielder after overcoming various injury setbacks.

Partey’s absence from the 2023 AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast contributed to Ghana’s early elimination in the group stage. Now, with his inclusion in Otto Addo’s squad and the captain’s armband bestowed upon him, Partey aims to lead the Black Stars to victory.

His leadership role comes in the absence of Andre Ayew and Richard Ofori, both omitted from the 26-man squad for this crucial assignment.

Preparations will commence at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra, where the Black Stars will undergo training sessions ahead of their matches.

On June 6, they will face Mali at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako before returning home to host the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on June 10.

With a mixed start to the qualifiers last year, Ghana is determined to secure maximum points in both games, having won one match against Madagascar and suffered a narrow defeat to Comoros.

Currently positioned 4th in Group I, the Black Stars see these upcoming games as an opportunity to climb the ranks and strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.

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