The Ghana Football Association (GFA) says it is determined to ensure the Black Stars qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after missing out on the previous tournament.

Ghana, four-time African champions, failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON for the first time in more than two decades after finishing bottom of their qualifying group.

The Black Stars endured a disappointing campaign, recording three defeats and three draws from their six matches.

With Ghana set to begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign later this month, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says the association’s priority is to secure a return to the continental competition.

“We are a country that did not qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last year, so our aim and ambition are to make it to the AFCON next year,” he told Asempa FM.

Ghana have been drawn in Group C alongside Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia and Somalia, with the top two teams advancing to the tournament.

Asante Twum acknowledged the challenge ahead but insisted Ghana cannot afford to miss out on another edition of the competition.

“We are in a group with Ivory Coast, Gambia and Somalia, and two countries will qualify from our group, and we want to be part of the countries that will make it to the AFCON next year.

“I know it will not be easy, but we cannot afford to miss another AFCON tournament,” Asante Twum added.

The Black Stars will open their qualifying campaign away against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on 24 September, before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.