Ghana’s Sports Minister, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to lead their group in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, despite a challenging draw.

The qualifiers, scheduled to begin in September, follow the draw ceremony held on July 4, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, placing Ghana in Group F alongside Sudan, Niger, and Angola.

As four-time AFCON champions, Ghana faces stiff competition and must perform at their peak to secure qualification.

Reflecting on the draw, Ussif acknowledged the rising competitiveness in global football, citing the impressive performances of smaller nations in Euro 2024.

“There are no small teams in world football anymore. The ongoing Euro 2024 demonstrates how even smaller countries are excelling,” he remarked in an interview with Peace FM. “I have full confidence in our technical team under coach Otto Addo.”

“Coach Otto Addo is well-acquainted with these nations. Angola, Niger, and Sudan are all strong footballing nations, but I am highly optimistic that we will top our group,” he affirmed.

Ghana will lean on Coach Otto Addo’s experience and the determination of the Black Stars to navigate the qualifiers successfully and secure their place in the 2025 AFCON.