Several of the national teams' overseas-based players have not reported for duty ahead of the crucial match as their European club refused to release them for the international weeks.

These players include the former captain, Dean Furman, as well as Siyanda Xulu, Keagan Dolly, Thulani Serero and Bongani Zungu.

National coach Molefi Ntseki is hoping that they will be available for Sunday’s AFCON tie against Sudan.

“It has been very difficult because I would say 78 percent of our players who were selected in the past two games are not playing regularly in Europe or in South Africa.

“We are still negotiating with the clubs to see if they can release those players.

“If they can't come to join us here in Johannesburg to play against Ghana, then they will be able to join us in Sudan.

“But, that is something that we are negotiating.”

Tonight’s crunch match at Soccer City kicks off at 18:00.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport