Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana has expressed optimism about the future of the Black Stars, despite a rocky 2024 campaign that saw the national team miss out on qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) — a first in 20 years.

The 22-year-old Southampton forward believes the tide is turning following Ghana’s impressive start to 2025, where they secured emphatic victories in their World Cup qualifying campaign — a 5-0 demolition of Chad and a commanding 3-0 win over Madagascar during the March international break.

“We are slowly getting better, and this international break showed the future of Ghana,” Kamaldeen told Showmax. “We have very young ones coming in and doing well, while the older ones are leading the team with their experience and leadership.”

Kamaldeen highlighted the growing chemistry within the squad, noting the balance between emerging talents and seasoned players. “We are playing well and have got a good group. The experienced ones are helping the younger talents. We know what we have on our hands,” he added.

Looking ahead, the Black Stars will continue their rebuilding journey in May with a four-nation tournament before resuming their World Cup qualification campaign against Chad and Mali in September.