Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a significant setback following reports that experienced defender Alexander Djiku is expected to miss the tournament due to injury concerns.
The centre-back was initially named in head coach Carlos Queiroz’s 28-man provisional squad for the Black Stars’ final preparations ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
However, Djiku arrived in camp in Cardiff already carrying a knock sustained after being withdrawn from Spartak Moscow’s Russian Cup final against FC Krasnodar. Despite his absence, his club went on to win the match on penalties.
Since linking up with the national team camp, the 28-year-old has been unable to participate in full training sessions, raising serious doubts about his fitness ahead of the global showpiece.
With Queiroz expected to trim his squad to 26 players before final submission, Djiku is now widely expected to miss out, although an official decision is yet to be confirmed by the technical team.
The situation represents a major blow for Ghana, as Djiku has been one of the team’s most consistent defenders in recent years. Since making his debut in October 2020, he has earned 38 international caps and scored four goals, establishing himself as a key figure in the Black Stars backline.
He was also part of Ghana’s squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the team exited at the group stage.
His potential absence now leaves Carlos Queiroz with a difficult selection dilemma as he looks to finalise a balanced defensive unit capable of competing against elite opposition.
Ghana will continue their build-up to the tournament with friendly matches against Wales on June 2 at Cardiff City Stadium and Jamaica on June 10, which are expected to play a crucial role in final squad decisions.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama in what is widely regarded as one of the toughest groups at the tournament.
Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field.
With expectations rising and pressure mounting, the Black Stars will be hoping to overcome key injury setbacks and assemble a squad capable of improving on their recent World Cup performances.
For Ghana, the ultimate goal remains clear: progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic quarter-final run in 2010.
