Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi is confident Ghana has what it takes to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting the current squad possesses the quality and determination needed to bounce back from their FIFA World Cup disappointment.
The Black Stars saw their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign come to an end in the Round of 32, but attention has now shifted to the upcoming AFCON qualifying series, which begins in September.
Ghana will be aiming to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON, to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, after missing out on qualification for the 2025 edition in Morocco.
Speaking to Sporty FM, the FC St. Gallen shot-stopper expressed belief in the team’s ability to book a place at the continental tournament.
“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 believes the Black Stars can go beyond qualification and compete strongly if they reach the finals.
“I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year,” he added.
Ghana has been drawn in a challenging Group C alongside Ivory Coast, Gambia and Somalia in the qualifying campaign.
After the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, the Black Stars are determined to return to Africa’s premier football competition and re-establish themselves among the continent’s elite.