Ghana coach Ibrahim Tanko has maintained his faith in goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad and forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh by including them in the starting line-up for the crucial match against Guinea, despite growing calls for them to be benched.

Danlad has conceded seven goals in two games, while Barnieh, who serves as the team’s captain, has failed to make a significant impact. Barnieh was even relegated to the bench during Ghana’s 5-1 defeat against Morocco earlier this week.

There were reports suggesting that Danlad would be replaced by Sheffield United’s Joseph Amissah, with Barnieh left on the bench again, however, Tanko has chosen to stand by his under-fire players, displaying his belief in their abilities.

Undoubtedly, both Danlad and Barnieh played vital roles in Ghana’s qualification for this tournament, and Tanko remains confident that they can contribute to overcoming Guinea in this must-win game.

Meanwhile Ernest Nuamah is on the bench due to fitness issues.

Emmanuel Yeboah, the forward from CFR Cluj, who impressed with a brace in Ghana’s first game against Congo, retains his place in the starting line-up. Tanko has also granted Samuel Abbey-Ashie Quaye his first start, along with defender Nathaniel Adjei.

Must win game for Black Meteors.

Ashie Quaye, Nathaniel Adjei and Afriyie Barnieh make the lineup.

Ernest Nuamah on the bench. #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 pic.twitter.com/kCSXzx4hoE

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) June 30, 2023

Black Meteors’ campaign in the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations hangs in the balance, as a defeat or draw would lead to their elimination from the tournament. Guinea currently share the same number of points, three, with Ghana but possess a superior goal difference.

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