Harrison Afful forced out of Ghana match

In a friendly match against South Africa on Tuesday, Columbus Crew SC right back Harrison Afful came off the pitch in the 62nd minute due to an injury. The extent of the injury is unknown at this point, but it raises questions as the Black & Gold enter the final stretch of the season with three matches in ten days.

It was already unlikely to see Afful in Thursday’s match with the Chicago Fire due to the Tuesday game and travel, but if the injury is minor, we could hope to see him on Sunday.

With Waylon Francis out for the rest of the season due to surgery, and the presumed absence of Afful, Gregg Berhalter’s hand will be forced in the XI on Thursday against Chicago.

Berhalter is not known for changing formations or style, so it is assumed Corey Ashe and Hector Jimenez will be the two wing backs he turns to. With two of the four wing backs out, expect Chad Barson to be on the bench for relief support.

As for the Ghana match, Afful was a crucial factor, winning a penalty inside 38 minutes to give the Black Stars the early lead. South Africa rallied with a beautiful free kick and the match ended 1-1. Afful was widely praised for his dominating performance on the day.

Massive Report will keep you updated on any news concerning Afful.