Hindsight: Benjamin Asare’s debut and Otto Addo’s goalkeeping options

On Friday, Benjamin Asare made history. He became the oldest Hearts of Oak player to debut for Ghana at thirty years old. His match against Chad marked the first time a Hearts of Oak goalkeeper played for the Black Stars since 2005.

Many were surprised by Otto Addo’s selection of Asare. Journalists noted that he was not poor in training. In fact, he was the most popular player, earning applause with every kick and save.

Local players often appear shy and less competitive on national duty. However, Asare seized his opportunity and made the most of it.

Benjamin Asare was Ghana's starting goalkeeper against Chad on Friday. Despite doubts about his selection, Otto Addo confirmed his choice after the game.

Addo stated, "They all did well in training. Benjamin [Asare] did a bit better than Ati-Zigi and Wollacott." This explanation reassured many but some still questioned Asare's place on the team.

Critics argue that his twelve clean sheets in the Ghana Premier League do not compare to Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Wollacott's experience. However, Friday’s decision surprised many without causing outrage.

Ati-Zigi debuted for the Black Stars on June 7, 2018, in a friendly against Iceland. He has started twenty-two out of seventy-seven matches since then, which is only 29.8%.

Joseph Wollacott made his debut during World Cup qualifiers on October 9, 2021. He has appeared in eleven out of sixty-two matches since then, just 19.35%.

Wollacott joined three years after Ati-Zigi but faced similar challenges securing a starting position. Both goalkeepers have struggled to establish themselves over five different coaches.

Despite being part of the national team for several years, neither Ati-Zigi nor Wollacott has locked down their spot as first-choice goalkeeper.

Asare's rise comes amid their struggles for consistent playing time. It is clear why he was chosen over them.

Otto Addo must now decide who his preferred goalkeeper will be moving forward. If Asare remains healthy and performs well, there may be no need for changes in goalkeeping positions.