Former Ghana striker Augustine Arhinful has raised concerns about the performance of goalkeeper Benjamin Asare following the Black Stars' 1-1 draw with Wales in an international friendly on Tuesday. Head coach Carlos Queiroz opted to start Lawrence Ati-Zigi in the match at Cardiff City Stadium, with the goalkeeper delivering a solid display during a goalless first half. Benjamin Asare was introduced after the break as Ghana continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars eventually took the lead through Caleb Yienkyi, but a late defensive lapse allowed Lewis Koumas to equalise for the hosts and secure a share of the spoils. Reacting to the result, Arhinful urged the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper to improve key aspects of his game, particularly his communication and decision-making when dealing with crosses. Speaking on Sporty FM, the former Black Stars forward suggested that Asare's positioning before Wales' equaliser should be scrutinised, arguing that the goalkeeper may have been able to do more to prevent the goal. “Benjamin Asare has to be spoken to. His communication and how he comes out need to improve," Arhinful said. "He’s always found wanting when there’s a cross into our box. The question is, could he have done something about the goal Wales scored, considering his positioning?” he added. Ghana will conclude their World Cup preparations with another friendly against Jamaica on June 10 before departing for North America for the tournament. The Black Stars will begin their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27. Ghana will be hoping to progress beyond the group stage and reach the knockout rounds for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Former Ghana striker Augustine Arhinful has raised concerns about the performance of goalkeeper Benjamin Asare following the Black Stars' 1-1 draw with Wales in an international friendly on Tuesday.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz opted to start Lawrence Ati-Zigi in the match at Cardiff City Stadium, with the goalkeeper delivering a solid display during a goalless first half.
Benjamin Asare was introduced after the break as Ghana continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars eventually took the lead through Caleb Yienkyi, but a late defensive lapse allowed Lewis Koumas to equalise for the hosts and secure a share of the spoils.
Reacting to the result, Arhinful urged the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper to improve key aspects of his game, particularly his communication and decision-making when dealing with crosses.
Speaking on Sporty FM, the former Black Stars forward suggested that Asare's positioning before Wales' equaliser should be scrutinised, arguing that the goalkeeper may have been able to do more to prevent the goal.
“Benjamin Asare has to be spoken to. His communication and how he comes out need to improve," Arhinful said.
"He’s always found wanting when there’s a cross into our box. The question is, could he have done something about the goal Wales scored, considering his positioning?” he added.
Ghana will conclude their World Cup preparations with another friendly against Jamaica on June 10 before departing for North America for the tournament.
The Black Stars will begin their Group L campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
Ghana will be hoping to progress beyond the group stage and reach the knockout rounds for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
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