By Kwame Bediakos
Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is the only Ghana Premier League player included in Ghana’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 33-year-old has earned a place as one of three goalkeepers selected by head coach Carlos Queiroz, alongside Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Anang.
Ati-Zigi is the most experienced of the three and will head to the tournament for the second time after appearing for Ghana at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Asare’s inclusion is a major recognition for the local league, while Paul Reverson and Hearts of Oak’s Solomon Agbasi missed out after being part of the initial 28-man list.
The final squad also saw one major change in defence, with Alexander Djiku ruled out through injury and replaced by Derrick Luckassen. AS Monaco defender Mohammed Salisu was also excluded after failing to recover in time, ending his hopes of playing at a second World Cup.
Luckassen’s call-up marks a major moment in his international career. The 30-year-old, born in the Netherlands to a Ghanaian parent, recently switched allegiance to Ghana and now earns his first World Cup selection after helping Pafos win the Cypriot League title this season.
Ghana’s squad now blends local talent, overseas experience and fresh defensive options as preparations continue for the tournament. With Asare standing out as the lone domestic league representative, his selection also highlights the continued role of the Ghana Premier League in producing national team contenders.
