2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Fenerbache defender Alexander Djiku unavailable for Ghanaâs games against Angola and Niger
Turkey-based defender Alexander Djiku has pulled out of the Black Stars ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.The Black Stars wrap up their qualifiers against already-qualified Angola and bottom-rock Niger this week.Ghana will travel to face the Palancas Negras in Luanda on November 15 before playing host to Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium on November 18, 2024.However, Djiku, who was initially named in the 25-man squad for the upcoming games has withdrawn following an aggravation of existing hamstring injury.The former Strasbourg defender was subbed off on Sunday when Fenerbache walloped Sivasspor in the Turkish top-flight.A statement from the Ghana FA reads, Its an aggravation of an existing hamstring that got him substituted in their last game on Sunday, November 10, 2024The West African powerhouse will commence preparations for the upcoming on Monday evening.Meanwhile, the Black Stars are on the verge on missing out on the AFCON for the first time in 20-years following the teams unimpressive performance in the qualifying series.Ghana has endured a torrid AFCON qualifications, losing two and drawing two games after four matches. They have managed only two points and are currently third on the standings heading into the final round of games this month.The Black Stars now needs to secure wins against already-qualified Angola and Niger, while hoping that Sudan falters against these same opponents, to keep their chances alive for next years tournament in Morocco.
