2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Black Stars need wins against Somalia to revive hopes - Kim Lars Björkegren

Interim Black Stars coach Kim Lars Björkegren says Ghana must secure victories in their double-header against Somalia to revive their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana will face Somalia in the Matchday Three and Four fixtures of the qualifiers, with the first encounter scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at the Essipong Sports Stadium.

The Black Stars have endured a difficult start to their qualifying campaign, suffering back-to-back defeats against Ivory Coast and The Gambia in their opening two matches.

The four-time African champions are therefore under pressure to collect maximum points from the two encounters as they seek to get their campaign back on track.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's match, Björkegren stressed that winning both games was the immediate priority, while urging his players to reproduce the performances they deliver at club level.

"A win. Simple as that, but that's what we need. It's not just about me or something specific," he said.

"I have to let the guys know they are so good, repeat what they do at club level and support each other on the pitch, then I am positive we will get the results."

Thursday's encounter is scheduled to kick off at 14:00 GMT, with the return fixture set for Monday, November 16, at the same venue.

Ghana are seeking a return to the continental showpiece after missing out on the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.

The 2027 edition will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, with the Black Stars determined to secure qualification and avoid another disappointing campaign.