AFCON 2027Q: ‘I’m optimistic Black Stars can turn things around’ – Agyemang-Badu

Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu maintains optimism that the Black Stars can bounce back and secure qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team suffered a disastrous start to their Group C campaign, losing 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire and then falling 4-2 to The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium. Currently, the Black Stars are at the bottom of Group C, without any points from their opening two matches and facing four matches to turn their fortunes around.

Despite the gloomy performance, Agyemang-Badu, who was part of Ghana's victorious U-20 World Cup team in 2009, believes the team can still win their next games in November. Speaking to Ahenfie Sports, he expressed optimism and urged the opportunity for local players. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Carlos Queiroz parted ways following the poor qualification start.

A five-member committee has been formed to interview candidates and recommend a permanent replacement. For the time being, an interim technical team is to guide the Black Stars in their upcoming matches against Somalia.