Ghana coach Otto Addo unsure if Benjamin Asare will start against Japan

Ghana head coach Otto Addo has expressed uncertainty over whether goalkeeper Benjamin Asare will feature in Friday’s Kirin Challenge Cup friendly against Japan.

“Benjamin Asare is very healthy. Due to the time difference and long travel, we have to see how he feels and see whether he can play,” Addo said on Thursday.

The Hearts of Oak shot-stopper joined the Black Stars camp later than most of the squad but is expected to take part in the team’s final training session at the Toyota Stadium in Aichi ahead of the match.

Asare, currently Ghana’s number one, was instrumental in the Black Stars’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification, making six appearances and keeping five clean sheets.

The friendly is part of Ghana’s build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, with a second international fixture against South Korea scheduled four days later.