Ghana's Sports Minister, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars' ability to top their group in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, despite being drawn into a challenging group.
The qualifiers are set to commence in September, with the draw ceremony held on July 4, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Ghana were placed in Group F alongside Sudan, Niger, and Angola.
The four-time AFCON champions will need to perform at their best to secure a spot in next year's tournament.
Reacting to the draw, Ussif acknowledged the increasing competitiveness in international football, pointing out the impressive performances of smaller nations in the ongoing Euro 2024.
"Now there is no small team in the world. What is going on in Euro 2024 shows that even smaller countries are performing very well," he told Peace FM. "The only thing I have confidence in is our technical team led by coach Otto Addo."
"Otto Addo knows most of these countries well. Angola, Niger, and Sudan are all good football nations, but I have so much confidence that we will top the group," he added.
Ghana will rely on the experience and expertise of coach Otto Addo and the determination of the Black Stars to navigate through the qualifiers and secure their place in the 2025 AFCON.