Back
According to GhanaWeb on Thursday, October 22, 2026, former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has expressed concerns about Ghana's chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), suggesting that it would take a miracle for the Black Stars to secure a place in the tournament.
Kingston's statement has drawn attention to the challenges facing Ghana's senior national team as the country seeks to return to the continental competition and restore confidence among its supporters. The former midfielder, who represented Ghana during his playing career, is familiar with the expectations surrounding the Black Stars and the importance of consistent performances in major international tournaments.
Ghana is one of Africa's most successful football nations, having won the AFCON title four times. However, the team has struggled to reproduce the consistency and dominance associated with some of its most successful periods, leaving supporters concerned about the direction of the national side.
The Black Stars' recent performances have also increased pressure on the team to deliver results and demonstrate that they can compete with the continent's strongest national sides. For a country with Ghana's football history, failing to qualify for a major tournament would be a significant disappointment for players, officials and supporters.
Kingston's assessment reflects the concerns surrounding the team's current situation. His choice of words suggests that he believes Ghana faces a difficult challenge in its attempt to qualify for the 2027 AFCON, although the specific reasons behind his assessment would need to be considered in the context of his full remarks.
The former Ghana international enjoyed a career that included spells at several clubs outside the country. He was also part of the generation of Ghanaian players who helped maintain the country's reputation as a major force in African football.
His experience in the game gives his comments significance among supporters who are eager to see the national team return to its former standards. Many Ghanaian football fans expect the Black Stars to compete for continental honours rather than struggle to secure qualification.
The 2027 AFCON is scheduled to be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, marking a historic edition of the competition because it will be staged across three East African countries.
For Ghana, qualification would provide an opportunity to rebuild confidence, assess the team's progress and demonstrate that the country remains competitive at the highest level of African football.
Kingston's remarks are therefore likely to generate further debate about the Black Stars' preparations, performances and prospects of reaching the tournament.