Ghana coach Otto Addo has explained his decision to start Lawrence Ati-Zigi ahead of Joseph Wollacott and Frederick Asare in goal post during the 2026 World Cup qualifying games against Mali and Central Africa Republic.
Ati-Zigi appears to have regain his number spot under new coach Otto Addo having spent the entirety of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 campaign on the bench under former coach Chris Hughton.
The St Gallen shot stopper kept the post against Mali and Central Africa Republic as the Black Stars secured back to back wins to end their winless run this year.
Ghana defeated Mali 2-1 in Bamako before returning to Kumasi to snatch a 4-3 victory over Central Africa Republic.
Explaining why he chose At-Zigi over other goalkeepers, he said, “We select goalkeepers based on the performance at the club level and is easier for me to judge on someone who is playing”
“Ati-Zigi is playing for his club and he is the number one goalkeeper. Truly if you don’t play is difficult for me to assess on you. So this time I chose Ati-Zigi. He also gave me a good impression at training. Truly, he was a bit ahead of the others. Playing in one of Europe best leagues as a number goalkeeper put him ahead. This is how I can judge them from. I have to watch on the performance at their clubs and training as well”
The Black Stars are currently second on the 2026 World Cup qualifying standings with 9 points in Group I.
The World Cup qualifying series returns in March 2025.
Source: Footballghana