Derrick Kohn set to miss Mali clash over FIFA clearance
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has confirmed that debutant Derrick Kohn is still awaiting FIFA clearance to be eligible for Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium today, Monday, 8 September.
The German-born Ghanaian earned his first call-up for the September double-header against Chad and Mali, but missed Thursday’s 1–1 draw in N’Djamena due to incomplete documentation.
“We had a lot of difficulties in Chad. One was also Derrick. We didn’t get the FIFA approval. Up to that point, we were hoping for it, and even now, we still haven’t received it. I’m hoping it will come tomorrow morning. That’s the current status,” Addo told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
The Ghana coach stressed that his selections are based on quality, not where players are developed.
“In general, we are always open to any kind of player of Ghanaian descent. I always say it’s not about local players or players born abroad. It’s about quality. We’re looking for all types of players. In the end, I have to make the final decision,” he added.
Kohn, 26, joined Bundesliga outfit Union Berlin this summer from Galatasaray after an impressive campaign in Turkey.
He is viewed as a long-term option for Ghana’s left-back position.
