Ghana – Somalia: Kim Lars Björkegren wants to revive the Black Stars

12.11.26 10:00 AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Ghana

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Somalia

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Ghana can no longer afford to make mistakes in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. After opening their campaign with two defeats, coach Kim Lars Björkegren has set a clear target ahead of the double-header against Somalia: take all six points on offer. The Swedish coach wants to see an attacking, determined and united team.

“Our target is six points”

Speaking at a press conference, Björkegren did not try to downplay the urgency of the situation. In his view, the Black Stars must first get the job done in their opening match before thinking about the return fixture:

We need six points, but we have to go out and get them. It may be an old-fashioned approach, but we need to take tomorrow’s match first.

The coach is also looking for an improvement in the team’s performance. He wants to see his side take the initiative, push forward and be clinical in front of goal. “We want to play, create chances, go forward and score goals,” he said. But despite the pressure on Ghana, the coach refuses to underestimate Somalia. He specifically recalled that the Ocean Stars had put in a tenacious performance against Côte d’Ivoire:

They showed great fighting spirit and make things difficult for their opponents. We have to respect them, but also believe in our own abilities.

Björkegren is keen to avoid any overconfidence and wants his players to stay focused on their game plan.

Experienced players must lead the group

For his first camp in charge of the national team, the Swede can call on several experienced players, including Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew and Mohammed Salisu. Their experience at the highest level is an important source of support at a time when the Black Stars are under pressure.

The coach nevertheless wants everyone to express themselves freely, provided they preserve the team’s cohesion.

The most important thing is for them to feel free to do what they know how to do, while working hard together as a group.

Ghana are currently bottom of Group C with zero points, after defeats against Côte d’Ivoire (2-0) and The Gambia (4-2). Somalia have the same record, while the two leaders have six points. The first leg will be played this Thursday, November 12, at Essipong Stadium in Takoradi. The two teams will meet again on November 16 for the return leg at the same venue.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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