Mohammed Polo, a midfielder who helped Ghana win the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations, has dismissed growing calls for the national team, the Black Stars, to pull out of the 2027 AFCON qualifying competition. Ghana currently sits at the bottom of Group C without a single point after losing its first two matches. Polo described the idea of withdrawal as "senseless" and urged the team to focus on fixing its technical problems instead.
The Black Stars' poor start to the qualifiers has led to frustration among Ghanaian football fans and significant changes within the team. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Carlos Queiroz mutually parted ways following the team's back-to-back defeats. The GFA has since initiated a search process for a replacement, assembling a panel to find a new technical leader. This development has added to the turmoil within Ghanaian football.
Polo emphasized that Ghana had previously found itself in difficult situations but had always opted to find solutions rather than abandon the fight. He stressed that the current crop of players differs significantly from that of two years ago and that what the team needs is a technical coach who can add real value to the existing squad. Polo argued that the current setup has not been providing fresh tactical input, leaving players to rely solely on their instincts.
The stakes are high for Ghanaian football followers, with the team needing to beat Somalia in November to keep its qualification hopes alive. A withdrawal from the qualifiers would end any chance of qualification outright. Polo's preferred solution — fixing the technical setup — depends heavily on how quickly the GFA can appoint a new head coach. The team's next qualifying assignment is the decisive fixture against Somalia.
Polo's comments were made in response to growing frustration with the GFA's leadership, with some stakeholders renewing calls for changes at the top of Ghanaian football administration. However, Polo's focus remains on finding solutions within the team rather than addressing administrative issues. His experience as a player is expected to bring valuable insights to the current situation.
The GFA has convened a search process for a new head coach, but no date has been given for the appointment. The governing body has publicly acknowledged shortcomings in how the campaign had been handled and is working to address these issues. The search for a new technical leader is ongoing, with the aim of improving the team's performance.
For Ghana to qualify for the 2027 AFCON, the team must navigate its remaining qualifying matches effectively. With two defeats already on the board, the Black Stars face a significant challenge in securing a spot in the tournament. The team's ability to adapt and overcome its current struggles will be crucial in determining its fate.
Key points
- Mohammed Polo rejects calls for Ghana to withdraw from 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
- The Black Stars are bottom of Group C without a point after losing to Côte d'Ivoire and Gambia.
- Ghana must beat Somalia in November to keep its qualification hopes alive.
