Jerome Opoku Ruled Out of Black Stars’ AFCON Qualifier Against Niger Due to Injury
Turkey-based defender Jerome Opoku has been ruled out of the Black Stars’ upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Niger due to injury.
The player reported discomfort in his left gluteal muscles, which was later confirmed to have worsened after training on a subpar pitch in Kumasi.
Following consultations with the Black Stars’ medical team and his club, it was decided that Opoku return to Turkey for further treatment. He is set to receive injections under ultrasound guidance as he aims to recover in time for his club’s next match in the Turkish Super Lig.
This injury setback leaves Black Stars head coach Otto Addo with 22 players ahead of Monday’s crucial qualifier against Niger.
Opoku, who was an unused substitute in Ghana’s recent 1-0 loss to Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, will now miss the opportunity to contribute to the team’s AFCON qualifying campaign.
Ghana will look to bounce back from their defeat to Angola as they prepare for the Niger clash, but they will have to do so without Opoku, who will be focusing on his recovery.