Black Meteors coach Ibrahim Tanko has expressed his team’s determination to win the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations trophy as they gear up for this year’s edition, set to commence later this month in Morocco.
While their primary objective is to secure qualification for the Olympic Games in Paris, Tanko and his players are aiming to make Ghana proud by lifting the continental title.
After narrowly missing out on qualification to the Olympic Games four years ago, where they finished fourth in Egypt, the Black Meteors are motivated to go the distance this time.
They came agonisingly close to securing bronze and a spot in Tokyo, falling just one penalty kick short. The team’s impressive victory over a strong Algerian side to secure their place in Morocco further bolsters their confidence.
Qualifying for the Olympic Games is a top priority for Ghana’s men’s football team, as they have not participated in the competition since 2004.
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Tanko reflected on their previous disappointment, stating, “The last time we were at the AFCON, we were all disappointed because we were one penalty away from qualifying for the Olympic Games. This time around, I am confident we had quality players during the qualifiers we played. We are one of the eight teams that could win the trophy.”
While Olympic qualification is a significant achievement, Tanko emphasised the team’s ambition to go beyond that. He added, “If we qualify [for the Olympics], it’s good, but we will still try to win the cup.”
The Black Meteors have arrived in Egypt to continue their preparations, where they will face the young Pharaohs in an international friendly on June 15. Additionally, they have a second friendly match scheduled against an undisclosed opponent before heading to Morocco.
The U-23 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco will commence on June 24 and conclude on July 7, 2023. Ghana have been drawn into a group alongside host nation Morocco, Guinea, and Congo.