2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Interim technical team to lead Black Stars for Somalia games

Ghana will appoint an interim technical team to lead the Black Stars for their double-header against Somalia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in November.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced the decision on Friday, October 9, following consultations with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Black Stars Coach Search Committee.

According to the GFA, the interim team will oversee preparations for the two matches, ensure continuity in the national team's programme and support player monitoring and engagement activities.

The team will also facilitate a smooth transition when a permanent head coach is appointed.

Ghana are scheduled to face Somalia in Matchdays Three and Four of the qualifying campaign during the November international window, which runs from November 9 to 17.

The appointment of an interim technical team will allow the coach search committee to continue its recruitment process without disrupting the Black Stars' immediate competitive commitments.

The committee has extended its evaluation, interview and shortlisting process through October and November, with a final recommendation expected to be submitted afterwards.

The search for a new head coach follows the departure of Portuguese trainer Carlos Queiroz on October 1, after Ghana made a disappointing start to their qualifying campaign.

The Black Stars suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Côte d'Ivoire before losing 4-2 to The Gambia at home, despite taking a two-goal lead.

Those results left Ghana without a point at the bottom of Group C, increasing pressure on the country's football authorities to find a lasting solution to the team's struggles.

Meanwhile, the GFA has extended the application deadline for the vacant Black Stars head coach position to October 15, 2026, giving interested candidates additional time to submit their applications.

Ghana will be hoping to revive their qualification campaign against Somalia as they seek to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.