Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani believes Benjamin Asare’s involvement with the Black Stars represents a huge boost for the club, even as they prepare to face Great Olympics without their captain in the 2025 Democracy Cup.

Asare has travelled with the national team for Thursday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chad in N’Djamena, ruling him out of Friday’s clash with city rivals at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Dramani, however, insists the goalkeeper’s international duty highlights the quality within the Phobians’ squad and offers others the chance to step forward.

“For us, we prepared Benjamin to the best that we can, you know, to have that production to the national team. That’s a big plus for the club,” Dramani told reporters at the pre-match press conference.

“Also, his space has been occupied by another person, and it gives everyone the opportunity to stand in when the opportunity comes.”

The coach added that the absence of key personnel is a natural part of the season, stressing the importance of ensuring every squad member is ready when called upon.

The Democracy Cup, now in its second edition, continues to grow as a symbol of sport and governance. Asante Kotoko won the inaugural title last year after edging Hearts of Oak in the final.