I Can't Imagine Ghana Not Qualifying for 2025 AFCON – C.K. Akonnor.

Former Black Stars coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor has expressed strong confidence in Ghana’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), making a bold statement: “I can't imagine Ghana not qualifying for 2025 AFCON.” This assertion, coming from one of the nation's most prominent football figures, has sparked widespread interest and discussion among football fans and analysts.

Akonnor, who coached the Black Stars from January 2020 to September 2021, understands the weight of expectations that always accompany the national team. His comment reflects the high standards that Ghanaian football has set for itself over the decades, and his belief that failure to qualify for the tournament in Ivory Coast would be nothing short of a national disappointment. The Black Stars, historically one of Africa’s most successful football teams, have participated in 23 editions of AFCON and are four-time champions, with their last triumph dating back to 1982.

 Ghana’s Rich AFCON History

Ghana’s football heritage is deeply tied to the Africa Cup of Nations. The country’s dominance in African football started in the 1960s when it won its first AFCON title in 1963 as the host nation. This victory was followed by another triumph in 1965, solidifying Ghana’s place among the continent’s football powerhouses. The team continued its success by winning AFCON titles in 1978 and 1982, further establishing its reputation as a force in African football.

However, despite reaching numerous finals and semi-finals in the last three decades, Ghana has struggled to add another AFCON title to its collection. The national team has consistently reached the latter stages of the tournament but has faltered when it mattered most, notably finishing as runners-up in 1992, 2010, and 2015. Akonnor’s words seem to resonate with this history of near-misses and the hunger for another title to break the decades-long drought.

 Akonnor’s Confidence in the Black Stars

C.K. Akonnor’s confidence in Ghana's qualification for the 2025 AFCON stems from his intimate understanding of the players, the football infrastructure, and the potential that the national team possesses. As a former player and coach, Akonnor has experienced the highs and lows of Ghanaian football firsthand. During his tenure as Black Stars coach, he oversaw several crucial matches, including the team’s qualification for the delayed 2021 AFCON, which was held in Cameroon in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although his reign as coach was cut short, Akonnor remains a key voice in Ghanaian football circles.

In expressing his confidence, Akonnor likely draws upon the talent pool available to the national team. Ghana boasts a host of talented players who ply their trade in top European leagues, including Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus, and Crystal Palace’s Jordan Ayew. These players bring a wealth of experience and quality that can propel the Black Stars to success. Additionally, there is a new generation of young, promising players such as Kamaldeen Sulemana and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, who have shown glimpses of their immense potential.

Akonnor also recognizes the importance of a well-structured team with a good tactical approach. His statement could be seen as a rallying cry, not only to the players but to the entire Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the coaching staff, to ensure that every aspect of the team’s preparation and performance is up to standard. Qualification for the 2025 AFCON will depend on discipline, focus, and consistency in the upcoming qualification matches.

 Ghana’s Path to 2025 AFCON Qualification

The road to the 2025 AFCON is not without challenges. The qualification process for the tournament involves tough matches against some of the best teams on the continent. In previous campaigns, the Black Stars have faced formidable opposition from nations such as Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Egypt, and Cameroon. While Ghana has often come out on top, the competition in African football has grown stronger, with several teams now boasting world-class talent.

However, Akonnor’s belief that Ghana will qualify reflects the national team’s resilience and track record in crucial qualifiers. The Black Stars have rarely missed out on AFCON tournaments, and their ability to perform under pressure has been a hallmark of their success. The team’s most recent qualification for the 2021 AFCON, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and changes in coaching staff, demonstrates their capacity to navigate difficult situations.

 The Importance of 2025 AFCON Qualification

For many Ghanaians, qualifying for the 2025 AFCON is not just about maintaining a footballing legacy—it is about national pride. Football is more than a sport in Ghana; it is a unifying force that brings together people from all walks of life. When the Black Stars play, the entire nation watches, and their success on the continental stage is a source of immense pride for millions of fans.

Akonnor’s statement, therefore, reflects the sentiments of the broader Ghanaian football community. Failure to qualify would be a blow not only to the team but to the entire nation. However, with the talent at their disposal and the backing of passionate fans, Akonnor’s confidence may well be justified. The Black Stars have everything they need to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON and possibly even go on to challenge for the title once again.