Richard Kingson, the goalkeepers’ trainer for the Black Stars, is brimming with optimism as the team prepares for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to be held in Ivory Coast next year.
Following a disappointing campaign in the 2021 edition that led to Ghana’s early exit, the Black Stars have secured qualification for another edition, marking their 10th consecutive appearance after defeating the Central African Republic in the last round of qualifiers.
While Ghana aspires to clinch their fifth title, with their last triumph dating back to 1982, Richard Kingson is emphasizing the need for patience while expecting a more successful campaign than in the past.
The former Ghanaian goalkeeper believes that the team has the potential to become champions in the future and is hopeful that they will deliver an impressive performance in Ivory Coast.
“The most important thing about a team is teamwork, unity and love. You know this is a new national team.
“The Black Stars now, we are coming together so I think before the AFCON, will get to know each other very well and I believe that we can get very far in the coming (AFCON).
He added, “I cannot promise you [Ghana will win the AFCON] but I believe one day I will be a champion.”
The group stage draw for the tournament is scheduled for October 12, 2023, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The 2023 AFCON is slated to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
In preparation for the tournament, Ghana will engage in two high-profile friendlies against Mexico and the United States in October.
