Former Hearts of Oak defender Dan Quaye has expressed apprehension about the state of the Black Stars’ defense as they approach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
The West African powerhouse, experiencing a concerning defensive record in recent games, faces challenges that need urgent resolution before the tournament kicks off.
In an interview with Footballghana.com, Quaye conveyed his disbelief in the current defensive setup of the Black Stars and emphasized the need for a swift solution. With Ghana sharing a group with Egypt, Quaye highlighted the threat posed by experienced players like Mohammed Salah and stressed the importance of shoring up the defense.
“We are in the same group with Egypt, and you can see some experienced players in their team. Honestly, I’m not happy with our defense, and if we are unable to work on them, it will be difficult for us to contain the likes of Mohammed Salah,” he expressed.
Quaye proposed a remedy, advocating for the inclusion of experienced players like Mubarak Wakaso, Jonathan Mensah, Harrison Afful, and Frank Acheampong. According to him, their wealth of experience is crucial for success at the continental tournament.
“Experience is key in everything. To me, there should have been places for Mubarak Wakaso, Jonathan Mensah, Harrison Afful, and Frank Acheampong. They have played to the highest level and have what it takes to deliver with the national team.”
As Ghana gears up for the 2023 AFCON, the defensive concerns add a layer of complexity to their campaign. The Ghana Football Association, in a change of plans, will now prepare for the tournament in Kumasi instead of South Africa.
The Black Stars, with a rich AFCON history, will seek to secure their fifth title in Ivory Coast next month.
The tournament is scheduled to commence on Saturday, January 13, and run through to February 11, 2024.
