Ghana can qualify for 2027 AFCON despite difficult start - Interim coach Kim Lars Björkegren

Interim Black Stars coach Kim Lars Björkegren remains confident Ghana can qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite the team's difficult start to the qualifying campaign.

Ghana revived their hopes of reaching the tournament with a 2-0 victory over Somalia in their Matchday 3 encounter at the Essipong Sports Stadium on Thursday.

Goals from Jonas Adjetey and Felix Afena-Gyan, scored in either half, secured the Black Stars' first win of the qualifying campaign after defeats to Ivory Coast and The Gambia in their opening two matches.

Speaking after the game, Björkegren reiterated his commitment to giving his best during his time with the national team, stressing that his priority is to support the players and restore confidence within the squad.

"My job is to be here to support Ghana, to be there for the boys and do my absolute best to win every game and to help the boys back in this group," the Swedish trainer said.

The interim coach also expressed confidence in the team's ability to secure qualification, insisting that the Black Stars have what it takes to reach the continental showpiece.

Björkegren, however, played down speculation about his future, saying his focus remains on the immediate task rather than what could happen beyond his current role.

"I think we can go all the way and qualify for the AFCON. So I'm doing my job now, and then we will see what happens after this," he added.

The victory lifts Ghana to third place in Group C with three points, although they remain on a negative goal difference of two.

The Black Stars will face Somalia again on Monday, 16 November, at the Essipong Sports Stadium in the return fixture as they look to secure another victory and improve their chances of qualifying.

Ghana are seeking a return to the Africa Cup of Nations after missing the 2025 tournament in Morocco, having failed to progress from their qualifying group.