Benjamin Asare must improve communication ahead of World Cup - Augustine Arhinful

Former Ghana forward Augustine Arhinful has called for improvements from Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare following the team's 1-1 draw against Wales, questioning aspects of his performance after coming on in the second half.

Asare replaced Lawrence Ati-Zigi at halftime in Cardiff as coach Carlos Queiroz rotated his squad during the World Cup warm-up match.

The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper entered the game with Ghana level at 0-0 after Ati-Zigi had produced a string of important saves to keep Wales at bay during a dominant first-half display by the hosts.

Wales created several clear opportunities in the opening 45 minutes, but Ati-Zigi stood firm and was arguably Ghana's standout performer before being withdrawn at the break.

Asare was eventually beaten in stoppage time when Lewis Koumas headed home Wales' equaliser, cancelling out Caleb Yirenkyi's second-half opener.

Speaking on Sporty FM, Arhinful suggested the goalkeeper still has aspects of his game that require attention.

"Benjamin Asare has to be spoken to. His communication and how he comes out needs to improve," Arhinful said.

"He's always found wanting when there's a cross into our box."

The former Black Stars striker also questioned whether the goalkeeper could have done more to prevent the late equaliser.

"The question is, could he have done something about the goal Wales scored, considering his positioning?" he added.

The comments come as competition for Ghana's number one spot intensifies ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ati-Zigi strengthened his credentials with an impressive first-half display against Wales, while Asare will be hoping to convince the coaching staff that he can challenge for a starting place when Ghana begin their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17.