Former Asante Kotoko management member, Alhaji Ali Maradona, says Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is “not at the level” to start for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Asare, who has established himself as Ghana’s number one in recent months, starred in the Phobians’ Super Clash against Asante Kotoko at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, helping them to a 1-0 victory.

He has now kept nine clean sheets and conceded four goals in 12 Ghana Premier League appearances.

However, Alhaji Ali insists the domestic competition cannot be compared to the global showpiece.

“People praise the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper [Benjamin Asare] but let’s be honest, he is not at the level of the Black Stars,” he said in an interview with Asempa FM.

“The World Cup isn’t a concert. You need an experienced goalkeeper.

“He deserved the [Man of the Match award against Kotoko] but that is not the World Cup. I am not saying he should not go to the World Cup, but to be number one, Ghana needs an experienced goalkeeper.”

Meanwhile, Ghana will face Austria on March 27 before locking horns with Germany three days later in international friendlies.

The Black Stars will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, before facing England and Croatia on June 23 and 27 respectively.

Otto Addo is expected to submit his squad for the tournament by June 1.