Ghana vs. Mali World Cup Qualifier: Otto Addo's Predicted Black Stars Starting Lineup Emerges

• Ghana head coach Otto Addo is expected to make several changes to his starting XI from the side that drew away to Chad
• The Black Stars can expect a tougher test from West African rivals Mali, in contrast to their encounter with Chad
• Thomas Partey is set to feature for the Black Stars following his court appearance in England earlier this month

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The Black Stars will host Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium in a pivotal CAF World Cup qualifier On Monday, September 8, 2025, with Ghana head coach tipped to ring as many as five changes to his starting lineup.

Ghana currently leads Group I with 16 points from seven matches, while Mali sits third with 12 points. A win for Addo's men would solidify their position at the top, keeping their qualification hopes intact.

The Accra Sports Stadium, with a capacity of 40,000, will be buzzing with anticipation as the Black Stars aim to bounce back from a recent 1–1 draw against Chad.

That result highlighted the importance of securing maximum points in upcoming fixtures. Mali, under Tom Saintfiet's stewardship, fresh off a 3–0 victory over Comoros, will be eager to close the gap and challenge Ghana's lead.

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According to Stats Zone, the upcoming clash carries huge significance for Ghana, particularly after midfielder Elisha Owusu was confirmed suspended and Ibrahim Sulemana was ruled out due to injury.

In response, according to the Ghana FA, coach Otto Addo has handed a late call-up to Real Oviedo’s Kwasi Sibo, who is set to make his senior Ghana international debut against the Eagles.

In a major boost for the Ghana national team, reliable defender Alexander Djiku, who missed the trip to Chad, and Joseph Paintsil, have returned to training and are available for selection.

Predicted Ghana starting lineup vs. Mali

Otto Addo is expected to make five changes to the side that drew 1-1 in N’Djamena, including a forced alteration as Elisha Owusu serves a suspension for yellow card accumulation.

Benjamin Asare is in pole position to retain his place between the sticks, while AS Monaco’s Mohammed Salisu, unused against Chad, could join Alexander Djiku in central defence, replacing Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey.

Despite concerns over his recent performances, Gideon Mensah is set to start against Mali on Monday, while Tariq Lamptey is expected to replace right-back Caleb Yirenkyi as Addo opts for a more attacking option on the flank.

In midfield, Villarreal star Thomas Partey, entangled in a serious court case, is poised to team up with Salis Abdul Samed in a double pivot.

Inaki Williams, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo are also expected to keep their places behind captain Jordan Ayew, Ghana's lone striker.

Possible Ghana XI vs. Mali: GK Benjamin Asare; Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, Gideon Mensah; Thomas Partey, Salis Abdul Samed; Inaki Williams, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo; Jordan Ayew.

Meanwhile, in an interview with YEN.com.gh, former Ghana Premier League star Mohammed Bawa cautioned head coach Otto Addo against being overly attacking in the upcoming clash with Mali. According to him, the Eagles thrive on swift transitions and could punish Ghana if they leave spaces behind.

“Mali are very dangerous on the break. If Ghana go forward recklessly, they will expose the defence and give the Malians exactly what they want. The Black Stars must balance attack with discipline. One mistake could decide the game at this level.” Bawa warned.

Essien optimistic ahead of Ghana vs. Mali

YEN.com.gh earlier reported that Ghanaian football icon Michael Essien shared a spirited and motivational video on social media ahead of Monday’s crucial clash against Mali.

The ex-Chelsea, Real Madrid, and AC Milan midfielder also visited the Ghana national team during the 2025 Unit Cup in Brentford, offering encouragement and guidance to the players.

Source: YEN.com.gh