2022 World Cup playoffs: Ibrahim Danlad exclusion from Black Stars squad explained by GFA Vice President Mark Addo

The Ghana Football Association (GFA), Vice President Mark Addo has explained why Asante Kotoko goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad was excluded from the Black Stars squad to face Nigeria in the final play-offs of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

According to reports, Danlad was included in the initial list for the crucial game but was replaced by Lawrence Ati-Zigi who plays for Swiss side, St Gallen.

The Black Satellites shot-stopper has been a key cog for Kotoko this season – helping the Porcupine Warriors secure top spot in the Ghana Premier League.

“The coaches have looked at his (Danlad) tapes, they know his strength and weaknesses and has compared him to all the goalkeepers called for Nigeria clash. This is only two games and I am sure they will continue to monitor and he will have his opportunity. I am not speaking for the coaches but every decision taken is based on information available to them.”

“Let’s just support the team,” Mark Addo told Kessben FM.

Black Stars will host Nigeria in the first leg of the 2022 World Cup playoff on March 25 at the Baba Yara Stadium, before travelling to Abuja for the return leg on March 29, 2022, at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.

This upcoming encounter is one that will be keenly watched by football fans in Accra and Abuja because of the known rivalry between the two countries.

The winner of the tie will represent the continent at the World football showpiece which is scheduled to take place from November 21 to December

The Super Eagles are seeking to qualify for the global showpiece a 7th time and, since 1994, have missed only one of seven editions. The last of three appearances by Ghana was in 2014.