As Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, prepare for their crucial AFCON qualifying matches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With only two games left, the team’s fate is on the line, and their qualification hopes hinge not only on their own performances but also on other outcomes in the group. Speaking to the media ahead of these decisive encounters, Ghana Football Association (GFA) spokesperson Henry Asante Twum shared insight into the team’s mindset and strategy as they face Angola and Niger.
“Unfortunately, we do not have time on our hands,” Twum began, acknowledging the urgency of the situation. “We are very much focused on the game and we want to go into it with a positive mindset. That has always been the driving force for this team. We go into games with a plan to win, but unfortunately, we haven’t had the results in the last four games.”
The Black Stars have indeed faced a difficult journey through the qualifiers so far, struggling to find their rhythm and consistency. The team’s chances of qualification are currently out of their control, dependent not only on their results but also on the outcomes of other matches in the group.
“While our chances of qualifying are not in our hands,” Twum added, “we have to remain positive. We will try as much as possible to go to Angola and fight very hard. We will give it our 100% energy and go for the points. If it works for us, we’ll be happy, and then we will come back home and face Niger with the same attitude. That is the mentality we are going into the games with.”
The Black Stars will travel to Luanda to face Angola on Friday, 15th November, 2024. This away game promises to be a tough challenge, as Angola is also vying for qualification. Three days later, on 18th November, the team will return to Accra to face Niger in their final match of the group stage, hoping to secure the win they need to keep their hopes alive.
With a clear objective and a fighting spirit, the Black Stars are ready to give their all in these decisive games, carrying with them the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation.
