Daniel Kofi Kyereh says returning to the Black Stars after about four years out with injury was a dream come true as Ghana prepare for Mondays 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Somalia.
The midfielder made his first major appearance since 2022 during Thursdays 2-0 victory over Somalia, replacing captain Jordan Ayew. Ghana will face Somalia again in the return fixture in Sekondi.
Kyereh said the Black Stars controlled most of the opening match but needed to be more clinical after creating several opportunities.
We dominated most moments of the game and did pretty well, he said. We created a lot of chances and had a lot of good set pieces, but we lacked a little bit in terms of scoring more goals from the opportunities we had.
He added that Ghanas focus was on improving their finishing in the final third in the next match.
The appearance marked an important stage in Kyerehs recovery after a lengthy period away from international football. He said his ambition had always been to return not only to club action but also to the Black Stars.
It was a long time since I was called up because of my injury, Kyereh said. I was working hard and looking forward not only to playing for my club, but also to coming back to the Black Stars. That was always a dream.
He described receiving the latest call-up as another special moment and said he was pleased to be fit and able to contribute to the team.
Kyereh acknowledged that his rehabilitation had not been straightforward, with difficult periods along the way. However, he said his objective remained clear throughout the process.
I would be lying if I said it was easy or that there were no problems coming back, he said. There were ups and downs during my rehabilitation, but at the end of the day I always kept my goal in sight: returning to the pitch, playing and performing well.
While sidelined, Kyereh continued to follow the Black Stars and said he received regular encouragement from across Ghanas football community.
He thanked his team-mates, staff and officials of the GFA for staying in contact, while also recognising the support of fans in Ghana and Ghanaians around the world.
They gave me a lot of love and sent wishes that encouraged me to come back stronger, he said. That gave me the power, strength and motivation to return, so I am happy to be back.
Kyereh also praised the supporters in Takoradi, where he made his first appearance for the Black Stars.
The fans in Ghana are always very powerful and helpful for us, he said. Especially in the last game, because it was my first time playing here in Takoradi.
