Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has challenged his players to raise their standards as Ghana begin their bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The four-time African champions are preparing for their opening Group C qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia later this month, with the Portuguese tactician insisting hard work will be key to achieving the team’s ambitions.
Ghana are seeking a return to the AFCON after failing to qualify for the 2025 tournament in Morocco, a setback that followed successive group-stage exits at the 2021 and 2023 editions.
The Black Stars are also looking to end a 44-year wait for continental glory, having last lifted the AFCON trophy in 1982.
Speaking to Ghana FA media ahead of the qualifiers, Queiroz stressed the importance of continuous improvement as he looks to build a competitive side capable of challenging Africa’s best teams.
“Absolutely. Every squad selection, every training session and every match must contribute to building a better team,” he said.
“We must be humble, understand where we are and recognise that, if we want to compete with the best, it is not enough to work as hard as they do.
“We have to work even harder and better. That is the best way to turn into reality the great dreams and ambitions we all have for the Ghana national team.”
Ghana head into the qualifiers after reaching the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where they exited the tournament following the group stage.
The Black Stars are expected to leave Accra on Tuesday, 23 September, for their opening qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké on 24 September.
They will then return home to host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 27 September.
After the two qualifiers, Queiroz’s side will conclude the international window with a friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October.
