Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has expressed confidence that Ghana has the quality and determination to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and compete strongly at the tournament.
Following Ghana’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention has shifted to the upcoming AFCON qualifiers, with the Black Stars eager to secure a return to Africa’s biggest football competition.
ALSO READ: Defeated NPP vice chairman aspirant dumps party for NDC after constituency polls
Speaking to Sporty FM, the St. Gallen shot-stopper said the current Ghana squad possesses the talent needed to qualify for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
“If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players,” Ati-Zigi said.
The experienced goalkeeper praised the youthful nature of the squad, expressing belief that the players are motivated to achieve success for the country.
ALSO READ: Carlos Queiroz remains in charge as Black Stars head coach, says assistant coach Roger De Sa
Ati-Zigi also insisted that Ghana’s ambitions should extend beyond simply qualifying for the continental championship.
According to him, the Black Stars have the potential to make a significant impact when the tournament gets underway in East Africa.
“I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year,” he added.
Ghana reached the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the Black Stars’ best performance at the global tournament since 2010 before they were eliminated by Colombia.
ALSO READ: Marvin Senaya sidelined for 8 weeks following World Cup hamstring surgery
The team will now turn its full attention to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, which are scheduled to begin in September.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group C alongside Ivory Coast, Somalia and The Gambia, with the aim of returning to the continental tournament after missing out on the 2025 edition.
With preparations expected to intensify in the coming months, Ati-Zigi believes the squad has both the quality and mentality to restore Ghana’s status among Africa’s top football nations.
