2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Black Stars call-up only felt real after squad announcement

Ronald Donkor has admitted he did not fully believe he had earned his first Black Stars call-up until Ghana's squad was officially announced.

The young midfielder was included in Carlos Queiroz's squad for Ghana's opening matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, marking his maiden invitation to the senior national team.

Donkor said he had spoken to "Alex" before the squad was unveiled, but resisted celebrating until he saw his name on the official list.

"When I finished speaking to Alex, I was still waiting for the list to be published so I could believe it was true," he said.

The call-up fulfils a lifelong ambition for the former JMG Academy player, who described representing Ghana as every young footballer's dream.

"It's been my dream to play for the National Team (Black Stars). Every Ghanaian player wants to play for the national team and wear the national colours."

One of his first acts after receiving the news was to call his mother, who shared in his excitement.

"When I received the call-up, I called my mother, and she was happy."

The invitation will also reunite Donkor with familiar faces from his academy days, as he prepares to link up with defenders Alidu Seidu and Augustine Boakye, who were his seniors at JMG Academy.

"I want to meet my fellow Black Stars teammates, Alidu Seidu and Augustine Boakye, because they were my seniors back in JMG Academy."

Donkor is also aware of the expectations that come with wearing the Black Stars shirt and says he is determined to keep improving as he begins his senior international journey.

"I know Ghanaians love their football. My friends used to call me Agogo, but right now, I want to play and improve."

The midfielder will now hope to make his senior debut as Ghana begin their quest to qualify for the 2027 AFCON under Queiroz.