U-23 AFCON: Meteors Coach Ibrahim Tanko confirms changes in starting XI ahead of crucial tie against Guniea

Black Meteors coach Ibrahim Tanko expressed his intention to effect changes in his starting lineup once again to ensure victory for Ghana against Guinea in the U-23 AFCON match scheduled for later this evening. 

Tanko addressed the press at the Stadium Annex GST in Tangiers hours before the game at Ibn Batouta Stadium and emphasized the need for these changes to help the team achieve its goal of advancing to the next stage.

Following their 3-2 triumph over Congo in their initial Group A clash, Tanko made three alterations to the Black Meteors’ starting lineup against Morocco. Striker Emmanuel Yeboah, who scored two goals and provided an assist as a substitute in the victory over Congo, was included in the starting lineup, replacing captain Daniel Afiyie Barnieh. Midfielder Salim Adams took the place of Emmanuel Essiam, and Hafız Ibrahim replaced Sylvester Simba.

Tanko revealed that the changes will persist as he strives to find a winning combination in this crucial game, where only a victory will secure Ghana’s progression to the knockout stage.

“We have a lot of different players, and we have studied Guinea’s two games. We will certainly select the best eleven that we believe can defeat Guinea. We are going to implement some changes, and we believe that these changes will assist us in achieving our goal. It is of utmost importance to us because a win will guarantee our progression to the next stage. We will devise a strategy to secure the victory and advance,” He stated.

He also disclosed that his 21-man playing squad had a clean bill of health heading into the crucial tie.

Also at the press engagement with the coach was Meteors fullback Edmund Arko-Mensah.

Edmund Arko-Mensah, in his remarks, encouraged Ghanaians to continue supporting the team. He expressed hope that with the support and prayers of the Ghanaian people, the Meteors would emerge victorious in the upcoming match.