Cagliari midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana has earned his maiden call-up to the Black Stars for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Mali and the Central African Republic.

This decision is part of coach Otto Addo’s strategy to introduce fresh talent into the squad.

Sulemana’s journey to the national team began in Sunyani, where he caught the attention of Atalanta’s youth scouts in 2019. Despite impressing in several trials, a major injury cut short his stint with Atalanta, leading to his transfer to Hellas Verona in 2021. He made his senior debut for Verona in October 2022 during a 2-1 defeat to Salernitana.

In July 2023, Sulemana moved to Cagliari, where he has made 14 Serie A appearances and scored two goals. His performances have now earned him a spot in Otto Addo’s squad for the crucial qualifiers.

Ghana will face Mali on June 6 at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako and the Central African Republic on June 10 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. The team will commence training on Thursday at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon.

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