Former Black Stars player Mohammed Polo has expressed his disappointment with the team's current situation, stating that withdrawing from the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers would be "senseless." Ghana currently sits at the bottom of Group C without a point, following a 2-0 defeat to Côte d'Ivoire and a 4-2 loss to Gambia in Accra. Polo, who won the AFCON with Ghana in 1978, believes the team needs to re-evaluate their approach and address their technical shortcomings.
Polo's comments come after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and former head coach Carlos Queiroz mutually parted ways earlier this month, amidst widespread frustration among fans. Some fans had advocated for a complete withdrawal from the tournament, but Polo disagrees, stating that the solution to the team's problems lies within. He emphasized that the quality of Ghana's players has changed since two years ago and that the team needs a technical coach to add value to their current squad.
According to Polo, the team requires deliberate coaching to elevate their standard, rather than taking radical steps to abandon the tournament. He stressed that withdrawing from the competition would not make sense, especially with two consecutive losses, which puts Ghana in danger of missing out on another AFCON. The team must win against Somalia in November to stay in the competition.
Polo's sentiments were echoed by various stakeholders in the Ghanaian football scene, who have been calling for a thorough review of the team's performance. The Sports Minister recently summoned the GFA to demand answers over the Black Stars' poor start to the AFCON 2027 qualifiers. A five-member committee has been formed to search for a new Black Stars coach.
The GFA has been under pressure to address the team's poor performance, with some stakeholders calling for the dissolution of the current leadership. However, Polo's focus remains on finding solutions to the team's technical shortcomings, rather than engaging in discussions about the GFA's future.
Ghana's next match against Somalia in November is crucial, and Polo's comments are expected to add to the ongoing discussions about the team's strategy and approach. The team's performance has sparked widespread debate, with various stakeholders weighing in on the best course of action.
As the team prepares for their next match, Polo's advice to "go back to the drawing board" and find solutions seems to be a timely reminder for the Black Stars. With the right approach and technical guidance, the team may be able to turn their fortunes around and secure a spot in the 2027 AFCON.
Key points
- Mohammed Polo urges Black Stars to find solutions instead of withdrawing from AFCON qualifiers.
- Ghana currently sits at the bottom of Group C without a point.
- The team must win against Somalia in November to stay in the competition.
