Ghana's Black Stars head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has expressed his ambition to restore the country's hopes of winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and end the 44-year wait for the continental title. In a press conference held in Accra on Monday, Queiroz emphasized the need to assess the reasons behind Ghana's prolonged drought and find solutions to enable the team to compete for the title again. He stressed that a professional and competitive approach is required to rebuild the team's chances.
Ghana last won the AFCON in 1982 and have since struggled to replicate the success of the team that lifted the trophy in Libya. Queiroz pointed out that the current squad provides a strong foundation for rebuilding, particularly with several young players already playing important roles in the team. He highlighted the age profile of the squad, noting players in the frontline and midfield who are between 20 and 22 years old, which gives Ghana an opportunity to develop a team capable of challenging for major honours in African football.
Queiroz hopes to achieve his goal within a year, targeting a final berth in the AFCON. He emphasized that this dream can be realized, stating, "I hope that dream will be reduced to one year, and in one year we can be in the final of the African Cup of Nations." The Portuguese coach's reappointment has raised expectations, and his plans to revive the team's fortunes will be closely watched.
Ghana will begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign away against Côte d'Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September, with the match taking place at the Stade de la Paix. The Black Stars will then host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 27 September as they look to make a strong start in Group C. These upcoming matches will provide an early indication of the team's progress under Queiroz's leadership.
The Black Stars will conclude the international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October. This match will offer Queiroz an opportunity to assess his team's performance against a top opponent and make any necessary adjustments before the AFCON qualifiers.
Queiroz's approach will focus on developing a competitive team, and he has identified the need to address the reasons behind Ghana's 44-year wait for an AFCON title. By rebuilding the team around young talent and adopting a professional approach, he aims to restore Ghana's ambitions in African football.
The road to the 2027 AFCON will be challenging, but Queiroz is optimistic about Ghana's prospects. With a strong squad foundation and a clear plan, he is confident that the team can make significant progress and ultimately end the country's 44-year wait for the continental title.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz targets AFCON final within a year
- Ghana last won AFCON in 1982
- Queiroz cites young talent as key to team's rebuilding process
