GOALKEEPER – Richard Ofori
Having returned to the Ghana set-up after missing out on the delayed 2021 Africa Cup of Nations tournament due to injury, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Ofori is likely to reclaim the No.1 spot from England-based Joseph Wollacott, who deputised as first-choice in the former’s absence, for the Nigeria duel.
RIGHT-BACK – Andy Yiadom
Despite a first call-up for former Belgium international Denis Odoi, Reading defender Andy Yiadom is still expected to keep his spot as the Black Stars’ starting right-back against the Super Eagles.
LEFT-BACK -Gideon Mensah
With Reading’s Baba Rahman unavailable to face Nigeria due to injury, Bordeaux fullback Mensah is tipped to get the nod at left-back.
CENTRAL DEFENDER – Daniel Amartey
Enjoying a purple patch of form at Leicester City this season, Amartey will be expected to lead Ghana’s defence from centre-back on Friday.
CENTRAL DEFENDER – Alexander Djiku
Strasbourg ace Djiku has been Amartey’s partner at centre-back since pledging his international allegiance to the Black Stars in 2020 and his place in the team is not expected to change against Nigeria.
DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER – Iddrisu Baba
Real Mallorca’s Baba will likely start as the most defensive of a probable Ghana midfield trio against the Super Eagles.
CENTRAL MIDFIELDER – Thomas Partey
High in confidence after being voted Arsenal’s Player for the Month for February, Partey will be expected to boss the midfield on Friday, particularly with Wilfred Ndidi absent for Nigeria.
ATTACKING MIDFIELDER – Mohammed Kudus
Ajax sensation Kudus returns to international duty after missing Afcon due to injury. He will be expected to walk back straight into the Ghana first XI as the most attacking man of the anticipated midfield trio.
RIGHT FORWARD – Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
Fresh from joining Sporting Club, teenager Issahaku could be deployed on the right wing for a possible battle with fellow Portugal-based Zaidu Sanusi.
LEFT FORWARD – Joseph Paintsil
With Stade Rennes attacker Kamaldeen Sulemana out of the Ghana set-up due to injury, Gent speedster Paintsil will likely start at left-wing against Nigeria for what could be a fascinating duel with right-back Ola Aina.
CENTRE FORWARD – Jordan Ayew
Captain Andre Ayew will not play against Nigeria due to suspension, but Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew is expected to step up in his brother’s absence, ahead of Roma youngster Felix Afena-Gyan.
