Joseph Paintsil, the Ghanaian winger, is optimistic about the current Black Stars team’s chances of winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Black Stars have not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1982 and could miss out if they fail to prioritize securing a spot in the 2023 edition scheduled for January in Ivory Coast.
Following a goalless draw with Madagascar on Sunday, Ghana finds themselves in a precarious situation, as they are expected to win their upcoming match against the Central African Republic in September.
However, Paintsil believes that both the players and the coach, Chris Hughton, are fully committed to seizing the opportunity to secure qualification, as they are on the right track in preparing for the forthcoming tournament.
“I think we are close,” he told 3 Sports when asked if Ghana can win the AFCON. “As you can see the coach is really working hard to build the players and make sure the players know each other,” Paintsil said.
“It’s all about knowing each other and every coach needs to know which kind of player he needs. A player also has to know which kind of quality his colleague also has to use on the field of player. It’s something the coach wants, and he has said he is preparing us for every tournament.
“I think this is a good start for us and as you can see, we are doing everything to give a good result for our nation. I think we are in a good flow,” he added.
