Afcon qualifiers: Razak Abalora likely to be Black Stars number 1 for South Africa and Sao Tome and Principe games

Asante Kotoko goalkeeper Razak Abalora may well start for the Black Stars in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Africa and Sao Tome and Principe.This is because first-choice goalkeeper Richard Ofori is injured and is a huge doubt for the games. The assistant captain sustained the injury while in action for Orlando Pirates in the Caf Confederation Cup on Wednesday night.Ofori was stretchered off after pulling a muscle against ES Setif. The match was played at the Accra Sports Stadium the adopted home of the Algerians due to Covid-19 crisis.The injury is expected to rule him out of both games. In his absence, Abalora is favourite to be in post for the Black Stars due to his experience and impressive form.The 24-year-old has kept seven clean sheets in 13 games across all competitions this season.Abalora is part of the home-based players training for the qualifiers. He and Medeamas Ofori Antwi are the only goalkeepers invited by Charles Akonnor.Between the two goalkeepers, he is the most experienced, having earned more call-ups and played one match. But Antwi, 26, who is enjoying a great season, can be given the nod to start if he impresses Akonnor in training.Ghana will play South Africa on March 25 and then three days later host Sao Tome and Principe. The Black Stars, who are currently first in the qualification Group C, will secure their place in Cameroon with a point from two games.