We are determined to ensure Black Stars return to AFCON after 2025 AFCON absence – GFA

Ghana, four-time African champions, failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON for the first time in more than two decades after finishing bottom of their qualifying group without a win, recording three defeats and three draws.

With the Black Stars set to begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign later this month, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says the team must secure one of the two qualification places available in their group.

“We are a country that did not qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last year, so our aim and ambition are to make it to the AFCON next year,” he told Asempa FM.

Ghana have been drawn in Group C alongside Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia and Somalia, with the top two teams progressing to the tournament.

“We are in a group with Ivory Coast, Gambia and Somalia, and two countries will qualify from our group, and we want to be part of the countries that will make it to the AFCON next year.

“I know it will not be easy, but we cannot afford to miss another AFCON tournament,” Asante Twum added.

The Black Stars will open their qualifying campaign away against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September, when they face the Elephants at the Stade de la Paix.

Ghana will then return home to host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet