AFCON 2023: ‘The pressure is always there; we’ll aim at winning matches’ — Hughton on Black Star’s previous performances 

Ghana's head coach, Chris Hughton, is heading into the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a resolute and determined posture.

Despite the Black Stars' disappointing performance in the 2021 AFCON, Hughton remains positive and committed to focusing on the task at ahead.

Ghana's campaign in the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon was marked by poor performance, including a loss to Morocco, a draw with Gabon, and a surprising setback against tournament debutants Comoros.

However, Hughton emphasizes that the team does not feel pressured to outdo their previous performance and is focused solely on the upcoming challenge.

In an interview with the Ghana Football Association media, Hughton stated, "I don't think there is anything regarding pressure relating to the past. The pressure is that as a proud football nation that has qualified for this tournament, we want to do our best."

Hughton acknowledges the significance of the upcoming tournament and the relentless pressure to succeed, stating, "The pressure is always there; we want to win football matches, and the only way you can achieve something at this competition is by winning matches."

Hughton's ultimate goal is to lead the Black Stars to victory in the AFCON, thereby ending Ghana's 41-year trophy drought in the competition.

Ghana's mission in the 2023 AFCON will be a formidable one, as the team is placed in a group alongside seven-time champions Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique.

The 34th edition of the tournament is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, with Ghana commencing their campaign against Cape Verde on January 14 in Abidjan.