Ghanaian winger Osman Bukari and defender Alexander Djiku were absent from Ghana's first training session, in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR).

Bukari's absence was due to his recent transfer to Major League Soccer (MLS) club Austin FC, while Djiku was nursing an injury sustained during Fenerbahçe's final game of the season.

The training session held at the University of Ghana Stadium marked the beginning of Ghana's quest to regain their winning form.

The team has had a mixed start in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers, securing a 1-0 victory over Madagascar in Kumasi, followed by a 1-0 defeat to Comoros in Moroni.

The upcoming qualifier against Mali is scheduled for Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako, with the kickoff set for 19:00.

Ghana will then face the CAR at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Monday, June 10, 2024.

Currently positioned 4th in Group I, the team is hopeful that securing victories in both upcoming matches will significantly boost their chances of qualifying for the World Cup, set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.