Ghana must stay humble despite ambition to end AFCON title drought – Carlos Queiroz

Carlos Queiroz has urged Ghana's players and supporters to remain grounded as the Black Stars begin their quest to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The four-time African champions are seeking to return to the continental tournament after missing out on qualification for the 2025 edition in Morocco, a setback that extended a difficult period for one of Africa's most successful football nations.

Ghana have not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1982 and have endured years of near misses, finishing as runners-up in the 1992, 2010 and 2015 finals.

The Black Stars have also suffered back-to-back group-stage exits and failed to qualify for the last tournament, raising fresh questions about the team's ability to reclaim its place among the continent's elite.

Speaking to GFA Media ahead of the upcoming qualifiers, Queiroz cautioned against looking too far ahead and stressed the importance of earning success step by step.

"We must have ambition, but also humility," the Portuguese coach said.

"We know our recent history, and we cannot talk about winning AFCON when we have not yet qualified.

"We have to work, grow, compete and earn our destiny."

The 73-year-old will lead his side into a challenging opening fixture against Côte d'Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké on 24 September.

Ghana are expected to depart Accra today, September 23, as they begin their Group C campaign, before returning home to face The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on 27 September.

Queiroz's appointment has brought renewed optimism among supporters, but the veteran coach is keen to keep expectations realistic as he attempts to rebuild a team that has struggled for consistency in recent years.

After the two AFCON qualifiers, the Black Stars will close out the international window with a high-profile friendly against Morocco at the Grand Stade de Tanger on 4 October.