Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has expressed strong belief that Ghana can secure qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite the disappointment of their early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars will now shift their attention to the AFCON qualifiers, which begin in September, as they aim to return to Africa’s biggest football tournament after failing to qualify for the previous edition in Morocco.
Ati-Zigi, who plays for Swiss club St. Gallen, believes Ghana possesses enough talent and determination within the current squad to overcome the challenge and book a place at the tournament, which will be hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
“If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players,” Ati-Zigi told Sporty FM.
The experienced goalkeeper also believes the Black Stars can go beyond qualification and compete strongly once they secure their place at the continental showpiece.
“I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year,” he added.
Ghana have been drawn in Group C of the AFCON qualifiers alongside West African rivals Ivory Coast, The Gambia, and Somalia, with the Black Stars determined to make a return to the competition after their historic qualification streak came to an end.
The four-time African champions missed the 2025 AFCON after struggling during the qualification campaign, ending decades of consistent participation in the tournament.
Ati-Zigi’s comments come at a time when Ghana are undergoing a rebuilding process following their 2026 World Cup exit, with the Ghana Football Association and the technical team focused on developing a competitive squad capable of challenging on the international stage.
The goalkeeper believes the blend of youthful energy and experience in the current team can help Ghana regain its place among Africa’s elite nations.
