Former Black Stars captain and head coach, C.K. Akonnor, has expressed optimism regarding the future of Ghana’s National Men’s Football Team. His confidence follows Ghana’s recent victories over Mali and the Central African Republic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, marking a promising start under the new head coach, Otto Addo.
In an exclusive interview with ChannelOne TV, Akonnor, who served as the Black Stars head coach from 2020 to 2021, shared his thoughts on the team’s progress and potential.
“It looks very, very hopeful,” Akonnor remarked. “Of course, there are things that coach [Otto Addo] mentioned that need improvement, but overall, I think the future is very, very hopeful.”
These victories have propelled Ghana to second place in Group I, trailing leaders Comoros only on goal difference.
The Black Stars’ resurgence under Addo’s leadership has rekindled hopes among fans and former players alike, with Akonnor’s endorsement adding weight to the positive sentiment surrounding the team.
Akonnor’s tenure as head coach saw him replaced by Milovan Rajevac, who led Ghana to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but faced an early exit at the group stage.
Despite stepping down, Akonnor remains actively involved in the football community and has not ruled out a return to coaching in the future.
The recent performances of the Black Stars under Addo have been encouraging.
Ghana’s 2-1 win over Mali and a thrilling 4-3 victory against the Central African Republic demonstrate the team’s growing cohesion and resilience.
These results are particularly significant as they mark Addo’s first official games in charge, setting a positive tone for his tenure.
Ghana’s national team has a storied history, and the renewed optimism comes at a crucial time as they aim to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The blend of experienced players and emerging talent under Addo’s guidance is expected to fortify the team’s efforts in upcoming qualifiers.
As the Black Stars continue their campaign, the support and insights from former stalwarts like Akonnor provide a valuable boost.
His confidence in the team’s direction underscores the collective hope of a nation passionate about football and eager to see their team succeed on the global stage.
