2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Ghana must beat Somalia in double-header to keep chances hopes alive - Odartey Lamptey

Former Ghana international Nii Odartey Lamptey says the Black Stars must win both matches against Somalia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers to keep their hopes of reaching the tournament alive.

Ghana are preparing for a crucial double-header against Somalia in the third and fourth rounds of the qualifiers, with the first encounter scheduled for November 12 and the return fixture four days later.

Both matches are expected to be played in Ghana as the four-time African champions seek to revive their campaign after a disappointing start.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Odartey Lamptey urged the interim technical team to prioritise maximum points from the two encounters, insisting that anything less could further damage Ghana's qualification prospects.

“I think the two matches against Somalia: if we want to qualify for AFCON, no matter what, we have to win these two matches, and then we make sure we concentrate on the next match. The coaches who have been given the job will have to do whatever it takes to win these two matches,” he said.

The former Black Stars midfielder also highlighted the importance of national team appearances in helping players improve their profiles and enhance their market value.

He believes representing Ghana should be a source of pride and motivation for players, urging them to approach international assignments with commitment and passion.

“Honouring national call-ups markets and raises your value. But things have changed, so it's up to the nation, coaches and management to enshrine the love in the players to make them feel at home when they honour the call-ups,” he added.

Odartey further stressed that players must recognise the privilege of representing their country and understand the benefits that come with wearing the national colours.

However, he believes responsibility should also rest with the Ghana Football Association and the team's management, who must create an environment that makes players feel valued and motivated to honour future invitations.

“It's a privilege to be called to represent their country, so I think so far as we benefit from it, we have to be passionate and committed to the team.

“So, individually, I think the players have to see that they benefit from the job they are doing, and management should show love and commitment to hold the team together so that when they are called, they respond passionately to it.

“At the end of the day, it markets you. As soon as you wear the nation's colours, it raises your value,” he said.

Meanwhile, the interim technical team, led by Kim Lars Björkegren, is expected to announce its squad for the two matches this week.

Björkegren will be assisted by Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram, while former Ghana goalkeeper Fatawu Dauda has been appointed as the team's goalkeepers' trainer.

Ghana head into the double-header under pressure after losing their opening two Group C matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

The Black Stars currently sit bottom of the group without a point and will need a significant improvement in their performances to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON alive.