Deputy Sports Minister Evans Opoku Bobbie emphasises the importance of the Black Stars securing a positive outcome against Egypt in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to advance to the next stage.
The upcoming clash between the two teams is crucial for both as they seek their first victory in the ongoing tournament. Egypt managed to salvage a point in their first game against Mozambique with a late penalty from Mohamed Salah, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
On the other hand, Ghana suffered a defeat as Cape Verde emerged 2-1 winners. Despite concerns among fans, Opoku Bobbie expresses confidence in the team’s technical strategy led by Chris Hughton to navigate the challenges posed by the experienced continental competitors.
“We cannot afford to drop out of the group stage of this tournament. No, we cannot,” he said.
He also advised the players to acknowledge the weight of the task ahead, as they currently represent the entire population of Ghana.
“They should know that there are 11 players representing the country. And they should also know that football is the passion of Ghana. They should know that they hold the hearts of the people of Ghana and should put in their individual effort.”
“I believe that the technical team has a strategy for every match, even though we are all aware that Egypt is a tough side when it comes to the AFCON. So let us hope and pray that the strategy works for us to get the maximum points and hope to qualify for the next stage.”
The Black Stars could receive a lifeline in the tournament with a positive result as they strive to overcome their recent disappointments in the competition. The team experienced a setback in the 2021 edition, losing to debutants Comoros and exiting the group stage for the first time in 16 years. The upcoming match against the Mambas of Mozambique will conclude their group-stage matches.