The Black Stars of Ghana will lock horns with the Cranes of Uganda in their Group D opener on Tuesday at the Stade Port Gentil.
Coach Avram Grant has named a strong team, starting Atletico Madrid midfielder, Thomas Partey ahead of Afriyie Acquah.
Jonathan Mensah also lost his place in defence as Leicester City’s Daniel Amartey partner John Boye as centre backs.
Ghana starting XI:
Razak Brimah
Harrison Afful
Baba Rahman
John Boye
Daniel Amartey
Mubarak Wakaso
Thomas Partey
Christian Atsu
Andre Ayew
Jordan Ayew
Asamoah Gyan