Black Stars Ramp Up Preparations for AFCON Qualifiers
The Ghana national football team has begun intensive preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with head coach assembling a squad that blends experienced international players with promising young talent. Training camp opened at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, with twenty-eight players called up from both domestic and international leagues.
The squad includes several players based in European top-flight leagues, whose clubs have released them for the international window. Midfield anchor Thomas Partey leads the overseas contingent, alongside promising attackers and defenders plying their trade in the English Premier League, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1. The inclusion of five players from the Ghana Premier League signals the coaching staff's commitment to integrating domestic talent into the national team programme.
Tactical sessions have focused on improving the team's defensive organization, which was identified as a key area for development following mixed results in recent friendly matches. The coaching team has implemented a new defensive system that emphasizes pressing high up the pitch while maintaining a compact shape when out of possession. Set-piece routines have also received significant attention, with both attacking and defending corners and free kicks drilled extensively.
Ghana's qualifying group presents a challenging path to the continental tournament. The Black Stars will face opponents with contrasting styles, requiring tactical flexibility and squad depth. The team management has emphasized the importance of a strong start at home, where partisan support at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi and the Accra Sports Stadium has historically provided a significant advantage. The first qualifier is scheduled for next month.