Brandon Thomas-Asante Replaces Injured Inaki Williams in Black Stars Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Thomas-Asante Steps In as Inaki Williams Misses Out on Ghana’s World Cup Push

Coventry City striker Brandon Thomas-Asante has received a late but vital call-up to the Black Stars squad ahead of Ghana’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. He replaces Inaki Williams, who has been ruled out after picking up an injury during Athletic Bilbao’s La Liga fixture against Mallorca.

The 26-year-old forward, who is having a standout season in the English Championship, joins the national team at a critical moment. Ghana is currently leading Group I and looking to book a place in its fifth World Cup appearance.

Inaki Williams was initially named in Coach Otto Addo’s 24-man squad but was forced to withdraw after sustaining a muscle injury last weekend. The timing is unfortunate, as the experienced forward has become a key part of Ghana’s attacking setup since switching national allegiance in 2022.

His absence, however, has created a golden opportunity for Thomas-Asante. The striker has scored five goals and provided three assists in just nine league appearances for Coventry this season. He was in top form over the weekend, scoring twice in a commanding display that made headlines in both England and Ghana.

According to a source close to the Ghana Football Association, “His performances have been consistent, and we believe he deserves a shot at this level.”

For Thomas-Asante, this is more than just a national call-up. It’s the result of years of determination and steady progress through the ranks of English football. Born in England to Ghanaian parents, he started his career at Milton Keynes Dons and worked his way up through clubs like Salford City before making a name for himself at Coventry.

Fans have welcomed his inclusion with excitement. Many took to social media to express their belief that he brings energy and directness to the squad.

One fan posted, “Thomas-Asante is hungry. That’s what we need. He’s got pace, power, and he fights for every ball.”

The Black Stars opened their pre-match camp in Casablanca, Morocco, where preparations are already in full swing. Ghana will face the Central African Republic on Wednesday, October 8, before returning home for a final group game against Comoros on Sunday, October 12 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Key players such as Jordan Ayew, Fatawu Issahaku, Antoine Semenyo, and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare have already joined camp. Thomas-Asante is expected to blend into the squad quickly, especially with Otto Addo known for giving opportunities to players who are in form.

The team held its first training session on Monday evening and will travel to the match venue on Tuesday.

Ghana currently sits top of Group I with 19 points and needs a strong finish to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Upcoming fixtures:

• Ghana vs Central African Republic – October 8 in Casablanca
• Ghana vs Comoros – October 12 in Accra

Victory in both matches will guarantee Ghana’s place at the tournament. The team’s goal is not just qualification but to build a squad capable of making a deep run in 2026.

Coach Otto Addo has emphasized the importance of consistency and mentality. “Every game is a final now. We cannot afford to slip,” he said during his pre-camp media briefing.

For Thomas-Asante, these two matches could change everything. A strong performance would not only solidify his place in future national call-ups but could also elevate his career in England. Several Premier League scouts have reportedly been monitoring his progress, and a standout showing in international football could boost his stock even further.

His call-up mirrors the rise of past Black Stars players who made the most of unexpected opportunities. Fans still remember how Asamoah Gyan broke into the scene in 2006 or how André Ayew became a national hero in 2010. Thomas-Asante now has a similar chance to create his own moment of magic.

Ghanaian fans have not forgotten the painful 3-2 loss to Comoros during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, which knocked the Black Stars out of the tournament. That defeat still stings, and many see the upcoming match at the Accra Sports Stadium as a chance for redemption.

Comoros may not be one of Africa’s traditional football powerhouses, but they have proven they can upset the odds. Ghana will need full focus and intensity, especially in front of a home crowd that demands nothing less than qualification.

As the countdown begins for the final two games, all eyes will be on how the Black Stars adjust without Inaki and whether Thomas-Asante can seize his moment. For Ghana, the goal is simple: qualify for the World Cup and do so with confidence.

For Thomas-Asante, this is a personal turning point. If he delivers, he may not just be a last-minute replacement he could become a key part of Ghana’s future.

Read also: Black Stars Cannot Afford to Miss 2026 World Cup – Mohammed Kudus