{
  "id": 8618164,
  "title": "2027 AFCONQ: Kudus and Djiku return gives Ghana timely boost – Agyemang-Badu",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/2027-afconq-kudus-and-djiku-return-gives-ghana-timely-boost-agyemang",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-20T05:21:14.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Adom Online",
    "slug": "adom-online",
    "url": "https://www.adomonline.com/2027-afconq-kudus-and-djiku-return-gives-ghana-timely-boost-agyemang-badu/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has expressed optimism that the return of Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku will bolster the Black Stars' chances in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Both players were unable to participate in Ghana's 2026 World Cup campaign due to injury, but have been called up for this month's fixtures against Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia. Agyemang-Badu emphasized the importance of Kudus' return, especially considering the team's absence of Thomas Partey. He noted that Kudus' presence can provide the necessary leadership to navigate such a crucial game. Djiku's comeback was also welcomed by Agyemang-Badu, with the veteran center-back's experience and composure strengthening Ghana's defensive lineup. The Black Stars kick off their Group C qualifying campaign on September 24th with an away match against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké, followed by a home game against The Gambia on September 29th. They will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4th.",
  "summary": "Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu believes the return of Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku will provide the Black Stars with a significant lift ahead of their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Both players missed Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign through injury but have been recalled for this month’s fixtures against Côte d’Ivoire and […]",
  "key_points": [
    "Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku return for Ghana's 2027 AFCON qualifiers.",
    "Former Ghana midfielder Agyemang-Badu optimistic about Kudus' leadership.",
    "Djiku's experience strengthens Ghana's defense for September 24th qualifier."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The return of Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku gives Ghana a significant boost, providing leadership and experience that could be crucial in navigating their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}