Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has issued a message to Black Stars supporters ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifier against The Gambia, emphasizing the importance of rallying behind the available players. The team is seeking to recover from a 2-0 loss to Côte d'Ivoire in their opening Group C match. With key players unavailable, Queiroz is counting on a supportive home atmosphere to help his side secure their first points in the qualifying campaign.
The Black Stars have been weakened by significant absences, including Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Kudus, and Antoine Semenyo. Queiroz has brought in replacements as he prepares for his first competitive home fixture since beginning his second spell in charge of the national team. The coach's message to fans planning to attend the fixture was unambiguous: "It's better to stay home if you're coming to the stadium to complain about players that are not here instead of supporting those that are here."
The Group C encounter at the Accra Sports Stadium carries added urgency, with Ghana yet to register a point in their qualifying campaign. A win against The Gambia would provide a timely lift to their qualification bid and keep their hopes alive for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The stakes extend beyond this single match, with a second successive absence from the continental showpiece representing a significant low point for Ghanaian football.
Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, ending a streak of more than two decades of consecutive tournament appearances. The team's recent performances have raised concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level. Queiroz is tasked with restoring the team's confidence and guiding them back to the continental stage.
Alexander Djiku, an experienced defender, had hoped to recover in time for Tuesday's Group C clash but has now been officially ruled out. His absence, along with that of other key players, has weakened the team's defense and forced Queiroz to make adjustments to his lineup. The coach is relying on his replacements to step up and make a positive impact.
The 2027 AFCON qualifier against The Gambia is one of the more consequential home qualifiers the Black Stars have faced in recent years. A win would not only provide a much-needed boost to their qualification bid but also help to restore the team's confidence and momentum. The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT, and Queiroz is counting on a supportive home atmosphere to help his side secure a positive result.
The outcome of the match will have significant implications for Ghanaian football, with a second successive absence from the continental showpiece representing a major setback. Queiroz's message to fans emphasizes the importance of supporting the available players and creating a positive atmosphere at the Accra Sports Stadium. The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike, with many eager to see how they respond to the challenges ahead.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz urges Black Stars fans to focus on supporting available players against Gambia.
- Ghana is seeking to recover from a 2-0 loss to Côte d'Ivoire in their opening Group C match.
- A win against The Gambia would provide a timely lift to Ghana's qualification bid and keep their hopes alive for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
