We have what it takes to qualify for the 2027 AFCON – Black Stars keeper Ati-Zigi

Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi says he is confident the Black Stars have the quality and determination to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite the disappointment of existing at the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With Ghana’s World Cup campaign now behind them, attention has turned to the AFCON qualifiers, which begin in September, as the four-time African champions aim to return to the continent’s biggest football competition after failing to qualify for the previous edition.

Ati-Zigi believes the current squad has the talent and hunger needed to secure qualification for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

“If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players,” the St. Gallen goalkeeper told Sporty FM.

The 28-year-old also expressed confidence that the team can make a significant impact if they book their place at the finals.

“I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year,” he added.

Ghana have been drawn in Group C of the qualifying campaign alongside Ivory Coast, Gambia and Somalia, setting up what is expected to be a fiercely contested battle for qualification.

The Black Stars will be looking to restore confidence after missing out on the 2025 AFCON, a setback that brought to an end the country’s long run of consecutive appearances at the continental tournament.

Ati-Zigi’s optimism comes as the Ghana Football Association and the national team’s technical staff continue efforts to rebuild the squad following the World Cup disappointment and prepare for a crucial qualifying campaign.

Qualification for the 2027 AFCON would mark an important step in Ghana’s bid to re-establish itself among Africa’s leading football nations.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

See Full Bio