Defender Gideon Mensah has been handed a starting role against South Africa by Coach CK Akonnor as Ghana take on the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Monday afternoon.

Mensah returns to the team following the absence of regular and experienced left back Baba Rahman who could not travel with the team due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Mensah has been impressive for his new side Bordeaux in the French Ligue 1 after joining them this season.

The hardworking youngster is one of 4 young players who have been handed starting roles in the game by Coach Akonnor.

Gideon will be making history against South Africa as he made his debut against the same side in the 2022 AFCON qualifier in Ghana in 2019.

With this chance, Mensah is expected to put up a good show in the absence of Baba.

Ghana are already leaders of the group after winning their group opener against Ethiopia by a lone goal and a good score line against South Africa will facilitate the chances of the Black Stars of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.