By OkayGoal 
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that midfielder Elisha Owusu will be unavailable for the Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup qualifier against Mali due to suspension.
Owusu, who plays his club football in France with Auxerre, is serving a one-match ban after accumulating yellow cards in the ongoing qualification campaign. His suspension rules him out of Monday’s Group I clash at the Accra Sports Stadium, where Ghana will seek to secure a vital win against Mali.
The 27-year-old has been a dependable figure in Ghana’s midfield, providing balance and work rate. His absence further depletes coach Otto Addo’s midfield options, with Thomas Partey battling illness and Ibrahim Sulemana struggling with a knee injury.
In response, the GFA has confirmed the late call-up of Real Oviedo midfielder Kwasi Sibo to reinforce the squad. Sibo, who has enjoyed an impressive start to the season in Spain, is expected to join the team in Accra ahead of the match.
Ghana lead Group I with 16 points from seven games, but with Madagascar and Mali close behind, victory on Monday will be critical to strengthening their chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.