Yaw Acheampong, a former Black Meteors midfielder, has shared valuable advice with the current squad as they gear up for their crucial final Group A encounter against Guinea at the ongoing 2023 U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games bronze medalist's words of wisdom emphasize the importance of maintaining composure amidst mounting pressure.
With the Black Meteors facing the possibility of elimination from the U-23 AFCON, the stakes couldn't be higher for the team. A defeat against Guinea would not only jeopardize their chances of advancing in the tournament but also dash their hopes of participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
This would prolong their absence from Olympic football, with their last appearance dating back to the 2004 Games in Athens.
In an interview with Max FM, Acheampong emphasized the need for the U-23 players to rise above the pressure and remain focused on their objective.
“The 5-1 defeat to Morocco in our second group game reminded me of our 6-1 loss to Germany in 1993 during my playing days. It was one of those days where nothing goes well for the entire team,” Yaw Acheampong said.
We shouldn’t let the pressure of the game affect us negatively going into the game, we must be calm.”