The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced that Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Alidu Seidu, and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku will miss the Black Stars’ final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Niger due to injuries.

Ayew and Issahaku both sustained injuries during Friday’s 1-1 draw with Angola. Medical reports revealed significant knee damage for Ayew, while Issahaku, forced off in the first half, requires further rehabilitation. Both players will return to their clubs—Crystal Palace and Leicester City, respectively—for recovery.

Defenders Alidu Seidu and Gideon Mensah, who were doubtful for the Angola clash, were ruled unfit after post-match medical evaluations confirmed their inability to feature further.

Ghana’s AFCON qualification hopes were officially extinguished after the draw with Angola left the Black Stars in fourth place in Group F, with just three points from five matches. This disappointing campaign marks the first time in 21 years that Ghana will miss the continental tournament.

With no stakes attached to Monday’s match against Niger, the team will focus on salvaging some pride. The Black Stars will hold their final training session at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.