Ghana aiming to end Olympic Games absence since 2004

Ghana’s U-23 coach Desmond Ofei says he is 100% confident the Black Meteors will qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The Black Meteors are preparing to face Libya in the second round of the African qualifiers as they seek to return to the men’s football tournament at the Olympics for the first time since 2004.

Ofei expressed his optimism after watching Hearts of Oak beat Basake Holy Stars at the University of Ghana Stadium on Saturday.

“100 per cent that we will qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games,” he said.

The coach believes the timing is right for Ghana to end their long absence from the competition, insisting that his players are motivated to prove the country’s footballing quality.

“I believe we can qualify because I feel the time is right and it has been way too long. We are preparing well and the boys are hungry to prove to the nation that there is a lot of talent in this country, that Ghana is one of the best footballing nations in Africa,” Ofei said.

“It is up to us to show that and, as I said, the boys are hungry to prove themselves.”

Ofei added that his side would do everything possible to overcome Libya and keep their Olympic dream alive.

“I believe it will be a good show and we will do everything in our power to beat Libya. In March, we will take on any opponent and we will be ready for that,” he added.

Ghana are scheduled to travel to Libya for the first leg of the second-round tie during the November 9–17, 2026 international window, with the return leg set to be played at home.

The Black Meteors are aiming to end a 24-year absence from the Olympic Games, having last featured in the men’s football tournament at Athens 2004.