I think Black Stars can qualify for 2027 AFCON, says interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren

Interim Black Stars coach Kim Lars Björkegren holds faith in Ghana's capability to secure a spot in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team, despite a tough opening to the qualifying campaign, managed a 2-0 triumph over Somalia in a crucial Matchday 3 encounter at the Essipong Sports Stadium. Goals from Jonas Adjetey and Felix Afena-Gyan, one in each half, provided Ghana with their first three points of the campaign after prior losses in their first two matches.

After the match, Björkegren reaffirmed his dedication to the national team, declaring his intent to offer his best efforts and aid in restoring confidence within the squad. "My role is to support Ghana, be there for the players, and give my all to secure every game and help the team regain confidence in this group," the Swedish coach remarked.

He also expressed confidence in the team's potential to achieve qualification, concentrating on the present task rather than speculating about what may occur beyond his current position. "I believe we can go the distance and secure a spot in the AFCON," Björkegren stated. Following this victory, Ghana is now positioned third in Group C with three points, though they still possess a negative goal difference of two.

Björkegren's team faces Somalia once more on Monday, 16 November, at the Essipong Sports Stadium in the return fixture, with another victory pivotal to their aspirations of advancing to the continental tournament. Ghana is aiming to return to the AFCON for the first time since their failure to qualify for the 2025 edition in Morocco, thereby concluding their streak of consecutive appearances at the competition.