Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, begins their quest to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with a crucial match against Côte d'Ivoire on September 24. The team has not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1982 and has endured years of near misses, finishing as runners-up in the 1992, 2010, and 2015 finals. Under the guidance of coach Carlos Queiroz, the team aims to reclaim its place among the continent's elite.
The Black Stars have suffered back-to-back group-stage exits and failed to qualify for the last tournament, raising fresh questions about the team's ability to regain its former glory. Queiroz has urged players and supporters to remain grounded, stressing the importance of earning success step by step. The Portuguese coach emphasized that ambition and humility are essential as the team begins its journey to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.
Ghana will depart Accra on September 23 and face Côte d'Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké. The team will then return home to face The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 27. These matches mark the beginning of Group C, and Queiroz's appointment has brought renewed optimism among supporters. However, the veteran coach is keen to keep expectations realistic as he attempts to rebuild a team that has struggled for consistency in recent years.
Queiroz's approach focuses on hard work, growth, and competition to earn the team's destiny. The 73-year-old coach believes that talking about winning AFCON is premature when the team has not yet qualified. His strategy aims to bring stability and success to the team, which has experienced a difficult period in recent years.
The team's recent history has been marked by setbacks, including missing out on qualification for the 2025 edition in Morocco. This has led to questions about Ghana's ability to reclaim its place among the continent's elite. Queiroz's guidance will be crucial in navigating these challenges and achieving success in the qualifiers.
After the two AFCON qualifiers, the Black Stars will close out the international window with a high-profile friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on October 4. This match provides an opportunity for the team to test its skills against a top opponent and gain valuable experience.
As Ghana embarks on its journey to qualify for the 2027 AFCON, the team's players and supporters must remain focused and grounded. With Queiroz at the helm, the Black Stars aim to overcome their challenges and achieve success in the tournament. The team's progress will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz urges Ghana's players and supporters to remain humble ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
- Ghana has not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1982 and has endured years of near misses.
- The Black Stars will face Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia in their first two AFCON qualifiers.
