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How Black Stars could line up against Wales

Edem Kwame
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The Black Stars of Ghana will take on Wales on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in an international friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

The match will mark the first time newly appointed Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz takes charge of the national team since his appointment, providing him with an opportunity to assess his squad ahead of football's biggest tournament.

Ghana will be making their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, having previously featured in the 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022 editions. With the Mundial fast approaching, the friendly against Wales offers the Black Stars a valuable test against quality opposition.

Ahead of the encounter, Pulse Ghana Sports takes a look at how the Black Stars could line up against Wales.

Goalkeeper

Five goalkeepers are currently in camp, but only three are expected to make Ghana's final FIFA World Cup squad. Benjamin Asare is likely to retain his place between the posts against Wales, with Queiroz expected to give the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper another opportunity to cement his position as Ghana's first-choice goalkeeper ahead of the tournament.

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Defense

There are concerns over the fitness of experienced defender Alexander Djiku, who is reportedly not fully fit and could be rested for the game.

In a four-man defensive setup, Marvin Senaya and Abdul Mumin are expected to form the central defensive partnership. On the flanks, Baba Rahman could start at left-back, while Alidu Seidu is tipped to occupy the right-back position.

Predicted Defense:

Baba Rahman – Abdul Mumin – Marvin Senaya – Alidu Seidu

Midfield

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is expected to marshal the midfield for the Black Stars. He could be partnered by Kwesi Sibo in a double-pivot role, providing defensive stability and helping shield the backline.

Out wide, exciting winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku is likely to start on one flank, with Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo operating on the opposite wing to provide pace, creativity, and attacking threat.

Predicted Midfield:

Abdul Fatawu Issahaku – Thomas Partey – Kwesi Sibo – Antoine Semenyo

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Attack

Captain Jordan Ayew is expected to lead the attack alongside Prince Kwabena Adu in a 4-4-2 formation. The duo will be tasked with spearheading Ghana's offensive play as the Black Stars seek to build momentum heading into the World Cup.

The Wales clash is expected to be a key assessment for Queiroz before Ghana's final preparatory fixture on June 10, after which the team will shift its full focus to the FIFA World Cup campaign.

Predicted Attack:

Jordan Ayew – Prince Kwabena Adu

Ghana's Predicted Starting XI vs Wales (4-4-2)

Benjamin Asare; Alidu Seidu, Marvin Senaya, Abdul Mumin, Baba Rahman; Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Thomas Partey, Kwesi Sibo, Antoine Semenyo; Jordan Ayew (C), Prince Kwabena Adu.

The friendly against Wales will provide Carlos Queiroz with an early opportunity to implement his philosophy, assess player combinations, and fine-tune his squad before Ghana begins its quest for World Cup success.

Edem Kwame

Edem Kwame is a journalist at GH News Media covering sports and national developments in Ghana.

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