Ghana technical coordinator Stephen Appiah has reiterated the Black Stars’ desire to win the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, but insists the team are “not under pressure” to clinch the trophy.
Kwasi Appiah’s side are set for another attempt to conquer the continent after a 37-year-trophy drought, having reached the semi-final of the last six tournaments and making the final in 2010 and 2015.
An official 28-30 provisional squad is expected to be announced by Coach Kwasi Appiah on Monday before the team’s trip to Abu Dhabi for camping ahead of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
In Egypt, Ghana have been drawn in Group F alongside defending champions Cameroon, Benin and Guinea-Bissau.
“Our goal is to win the Afcon. We are not under pressure though,” said Stephen Appiah as reported by Graphic.
“Personally, [even back in] my playing days, I usually didn’t get under pressure. I have been under pressure only twice – that is [ahead of a 2006 World Cup qualifier] against Burkina Faso in Kumasi and another against Cape Verde.
“I realised that when I was playing, I just wore the jersey and went and played. But now that I am part of the technical team I see it to be difficult, the feeling is not the same.
“We will try to advise and encourage the players to do their best.”
Ghana will open their campaign against Benin on June 25 and face Cameroon four days later.
The Black Stars’ last group game will be against Guinea-Bissau on July 2.
