Former Asante Kotoko SC board member Alhaji Ali Maradona has questioned Accra Hearts of Oak SC goalkeeper Benjamin Asare’s readiness to start for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Asare, who secured the role of Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper after making his national team debut in March 2025, was instrumental in Hearts’ 1-0 victory over Kotoko in the Super Clash at the Baba Yara Stadium, despite his side playing with 10 men.
He has since kept nine clean sheets and conceded just four goals in 12 Ghana Premier League matches.
Despite his impressive domestic form, Maradona believes the step up to the global stage is significantly greater.
“People praise the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper [Benjamin Asare], but let’s be honest, he is not at the level of the Black Stars,” he said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
“The World Cup isn’t a concert. You need an experienced goalkeeper.
“He deserved the Man of the Match award against Kotoko, but that is not the World Cup. I am not saying he should not go to the World Cup, but to be number one, Ghana needs an experienced goalkeeper,” he added.
As preparations continue, the Black Stars are scheduled to face Austria on March 27 and Germany three days later in international friendlies.
Head coach Otto Addo is expected to announce his final World Cup squad on June 1, ahead of Ghana’s opening match against Panama on June 17, followed by fixtures against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
