2024 CHAN qualifiers: Black Galaxies coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani reveals plans to maintain stable squad, explains the effect of player transition

Black Galaxies head coach Didi Dramani has shed light on his decision to invite 54 players for a screening program at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, in preparation for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.

The technical team identified players from the recent U23 and U20 squads, along with standout performers from the domestic league, for this comprehensive screening process.

Dramani emphasized that the primary goal is to bring together a larger pool of players and build a database for continuous monitoring, ensuring the team has a reliable foundation for future selections.

“We have assembled a very good squad, and we hope the transfer window does not affect us too much. Players transition a lot, so it’s crucial to establish a large squad that understands the team’s culture and style of play,” Dramani told Ghanasportspage.com.

The coach highlighted the challenges posed by player transfers, noting that over 40 players have already left Ghana for opportunities abroad. “When preparing a team, you have to do it comprehensively.

Having a large pool allows for replacements when players leave, and screening helps these players understand the team philosophy early on.””Over 40 players have already left Ghana, so when preparing a team, it has to be comprehensive.

“If a player moves, we need someone who understands the system to step in seamlessly. This is why we’ve monitored players like Isaac Afful of Samartex, Sulemana Fatawu of Medeama, and Francis Acquah from Bechem United. Bringing in players for screening creates healthy competition and ensures readiness”.

“We’re trying to put the team in shape and build ahead of the qualifiers,” he added. The Black Galaxies are gearing up for a critical two-legged clash against Nigeria in the WAFU B qualifiers, with the aim of securing their spot in the 2025 CHAN tournament, which will take place across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Ghana’s first leg against Nigeria is scheduled for December 20-22, 2024, with the return leg set for December 27-29, 2024. The Black Galaxies previously eliminated Nigeria on penalties to qualify for the 2023 CHAN tournament in Algeria after a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.