By OkayGoal 
GHANAsoccernet.com’s US-based reporter Herbert Boakye Yiadom takes a detailed look at Ghanaian centre-forwards across the globe as the Black Stars continue their search for a reliable goal scorer ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Replacing the legacy of Asamoah Gyan has proven to be a difficult task since his retirement. Over the years, Ghana has struggled to find a consistent and clinical number nine capable of delivering on the biggest stage.
With Carlos Queiroz now in charge and the World Cup fast approaching, attention has shifted to identifying the right striker to lead the line. Based on current form and recent performances, several names have emerged as potential options.
Brandon Thomas-Asante (Coventry City)
Brandon Thomas-Asante is enjoying an impressive campaign, helping Coventry City secure promotion to the Premier League. The 27-year-old forward has registered 12 goals and four assists in 29 appearances this season.
He made his Black Stars debut in June 2024 during a World Cup qualifier and has since earned seven caps, scoring once against Nigeria in a friendly. His consistency in front of goal places him among the top-performing Ghanaian attackers in Europe.
Jordan Ayew (Leicester City)
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has experienced a mixed season at club level, with Leicester City battling inconsistencies. Despite this, he delivered an outstanding performance during the World Cup qualifiers, contributing 14 goals.
This season, he has managed six goals and three assists in 40 appearances. While his experience remains invaluable, questions linger over whether his club form could impact his World Cup performance.
Caleb Ekuban (Genoa)
Caleb Ekuban continues to ply his trade in Serie A with Genoa but has largely been overlooked at the national level in recent years.
With four goals in 24 appearances this season and prior tournament experience from the 2019 AFCON, his absence from recent squads raises questions about his standing in the national team setup.
Daniel Agyei (Kocaelispor)
Daniel Agyei has featured regularly for Turkish side Kocaelispor, scoring four goals in 27 matches.
His recent call-up for friendlies against Austria and Germany suggests he remains on the radar, although he is yet to fully establish himself as a leading option.
Jerry Afriyie (RAAL La Louvière)
Young forward Jerry Afriyie is gradually making his mark in Belgium. The 19-year-old has scored five goals in 28 appearances this season.
He made an instant impact on his Black Stars debut, scoring against Niger in an AFCON qualifier. With three caps already, Afriyie represents one of the future prospects for Ghana’s attack.
Prince Adu (Viktoria PlzeÅ)
Prince Adu has shown flashes of promise, particularly in recent international friendlies.
The forward has scored six goals in 24 matches this season. While his potential is evident, questions remain about whether he can lead the line at the highest level.
Prince Owusu (CF Montréal)
Prince Owusu is enjoying a productive season in Major League Soccer, recording five goals and four assists.
Despite his form, he is yet to earn a call-up to the Black Stars. With the World Cup set to take place in North America, his inclusion could offer a fresh attacking option.
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, Ghana’s search for a dependable centre-forward remains one of the team’s biggest priorities.
With several players making strong cases across different leagues, the final decision will rest with the technical team as they aim to assemble a competitive squad capable of delivering on the global stage.