KAS Eupen goalkeeper Abdul Nurudeen returns to Black Stars after year-long absence

EUPEN, BELGIUM – JULY 31: goalkeeper Abdul Manaf Nurudeen of KAS Eupen during the Jupiler Pro League match between KAS Eupen and Anderlecht at Kehrweg-Stadion on July 31, 2021 in Eupen, Belgium (Photo by Jeroen Meuwsen/BSR Agency/Getty Images)After a year away from the national team, KAS Eupen goalkeeper Abdul Nurudeen has made a comeback to the Black Stars for the decisive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.This marks Nurudeens first call-up since October 2023, as he missed the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year in Ivory Coast.Nurudeens return is attributed to his recent resurgence at KAS Eupen, where he has reclaimed the starting goalkeeper position. His consistent form over the past five matches has not only stabilised the Belgian Challenge Pro League club but also caught the attention of Ghana head coach Otto Addo, who sees him as a reliable option for the upcoming crucial games.With his experience and renewed confidence, Nurudeen aims to make a strong impact in Ghanas final push for AFCON qualification. These qualifiers are high-stakes for the Black Stars.Ghana will need to secure victories against Angola on November 15 in Luanda and then against Niger three days later. Even with two wins, Ghanas qualification hangs on Sudans results, as Sudan must lose their remaining matches for Ghana to clinch a spot in the 2025 tournament in Morocco.Nurudeen’s recall to the national team comes at a crucial time. His return has taken the place of Frederick Asare, who has struggled with form and was dropped after an unconvincing performance for Asante Kotoko.