World Cup 2026: Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz rues Alexander Djiku's absence

Carlos Queiroz insists the Black Stars will miss dependable defender Alexander Djiku ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The Spartak Moscow centre-back failed to pass a late fitness test and has been ruled out of the tournament with an injury.

Djiku arrived in camp late after picking a knock during the Russian Cup final against Krasnador, but hoped to recover in time for the competition.

However, after several test, the French-born defender could not make it and had to be replaced by Cyprus-based Derrick Luckassen.

"It’s one of those moments we don’t like. Djiku got injured during the Cup Final. It was a very difficult decision. We’ll miss him — he’s a great guy, a great professional. I didn’t work with him directly, but I spent hours watching videos and speaking with people around him," said the Portuguese trainer.

"But that’s football. We have to move forward and show full trust in the players we have. The replacement was based on observation. We don’t work with just 11 or 22 players. You can win games with 22, but to be champions you need a full squad ready.

"When we knew about the injury, we went to our list. Luckassen was ready. I know he’ll be committed, dedicated, and will perform fantastically for the national team."

Djiku has been arguably Ghana's best player at the last three international tournament, including two Africa Cup of Nations. '

Ghana will face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L of the World Cup.