Ghana’s Black Stars are heading to Asia with a blend of experience and local brilliance, as head coach Otto Addo rewards homegrown talent ahead of the 2025 Kirin Challenge Cup.

The four-time African champions will face Japan on November 14 and South Korea on November 18, marking their first appearance since sealing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a move that highlights his belief in domestic quality, Otto Addo has included three Ghana Premier League standouts — Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), and Medeama duo Prince Owusu and Kelvin Nkrumah — in his latest squad.

🧤 Asare’s Steady Rise to Stardom

Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare continues his remarkable journey with the national team.
The 33-year-old, who debuted during Ghana’s World Cup qualifiers against Chad, has become Otto Addo’s trusted No. 1 — keeping five clean sheets in six matches and conceding just once as Ghana booked their World Cup ticket.

At club level, Asare’s leadership and consistency have been pivotal for Hearts of Oak, earning him praise as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in Africa’s domestic scene.

🌟 Medeama Duo Rewarded for Excellence

Prince Owusu, who made his senior debut in Ghana’s 5–0 win over the Central African Republic in October, retains his spot and will be eager to build on that momentum.
Meanwhile, Kelvin Nkrumah earns his first-ever national call-up — a reward for his electrifying start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season, where his pace and flair have tormented defenders.

⚽ Addo’s Balancing Act

With key stars like Mohammed Kudus sidelined due to injury, Otto Addo will use the Kirin Cup to assess fringe players and introduce new attacking options.
Prince Osei Owusu of CF Montreal is also expected to feature as Ghana tests its depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The Black Stars will assemble in Japan to fine-tune tactics and chemistry before taking on the Samurai Blue and the Taeguk Warriors in what promises to be an exciting test of Ghana’s evolving identity.

🗣️ Addo’s Message to Dual Nationals

Earlier, Otto Addo sent a strong message to foreign-born players of Ghanaian descent seeking to represent the Black Stars — reminding them that commitment and readiness to serve the nation matter more than convenience.

As the road to 2026 continues, the Kirin Cup offers Ghana not just competition — but a chance to celebrate the new generation stepping proudly into the Black Stars legacy.