Ghana have received a major boost ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after Black Stars midfielder Mohammed Kudus made his long-awaited return to competitive football for Tottenham Hotspur.
The 26-year-old Ghanaian midfielder returned to action following a seven-month injury lay-off, coming on in the 68th minute during Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.
Kudus replaced Mathys Tel but was unable to inspire a comeback as Newcastle secured all three points through goals from Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa.
Despite Tottenham’s disappointing result, Kudus’ return is significant for both his club and the Ghana national football team. The midfielder had been sidelined since sustaining an injury during Tottenham’s match against Sunderland on January 4, 2026. A setback suffered in April reportedly prolonged his rehabilitation and delayed his return.
The extended absence saw Kudus miss 237 days and 25 matches for Tottenham in all competitions. His injury also prevented him from featuring for Ghana during the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, making his latest comeback particularly important for the Black Stars.
Kudus began individual training in early August before progressing to full team sessions as he continued his rehabilitation. Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi had previously indicated that the Ghanaian midfielder would be part of the squad for the Newcastle clash.
Although Kudus’ return will be welcomed by Tottenham and Ghanaian football fans, the midfielder is expected to gradually regain his match fitness, confidence and sharpness following his lengthy spell away from competitive football.
His comeback comes at a crucial time for Ghana, with the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign set to begin soon. The Black Stars are scheduled to travel to Bouake to face Ivory Coast on September 24, before hosting Gambia in Accra on September 27.
Kudus could play a key role in Ghana’s quest to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, especially after the Black Stars failed to make it to the previous edition of the continental tournament.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur’s slow start to the new campaign continued with the defeat to Newcastle, leaving the London club with two losses from their opening two matches.
Source: newsthemegh.com