Ghana cemented their spot at the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 2-1 win over Central Africa. Former Newcastle United and Brighton manager Chris Hughton steered the Black Stars to an undefeated qualifying campaign, but what stands in the way of Ghana lifting the trophy in the Ivory Coast?
Thriving as Underdogs
Ghana’s underdog status ahead of the tournament means there are exciting betting opportunities galore. Thanks to the objective ranking of the best online betting sites in Nigeria, you can find top AFCON odds with reputable five-star bookmakers such as bet365, Betano, and Bet9ja. Once the odds become available, you can choose from a broad range of markets, both outright and for individual matches.
The odds on Ghana are likely to be much longer than they have been in previous years, with 10 African nations sitting above the Black Stars in the FIFA World Rankings. These include World Cup semi-finalists Morocco, reigning AFCON champions Senegal, and host nation Ivory Coast.
However, that doesn’t mean Ghana is without a chance. They cruised through qualifying undefeated, topping the group to earn themselves a spot in Pot 2, meaning they can avoid sides like Cameroon and Nigeria in the group stages.
Ghana has also been one of the most consistent nations since the turn of the century despite rarely featuring among the favorites. In the six tournaments from 2008-2017, they finished fourth on three occasions, came third in 2008, and were runners-up twice in 2010 and 2015.
AFCON Attack
The Black Stars have a well-rounded squad, with Hughton’s main weapon being his plethora of attacking options. Among those are brothers Andre and Jordan Ayew, who both feature in Ghana’s all-time top five goalscorers with 43 goals between them.
In particular, Jordan Ayew will be one of the standout stars should Ghana progress deep in the tournament. The 32-year-old has enjoyed several successful years in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, and his hard work and versatility make him a key member of the squad.
Thank you all for your votes - I'm honoured to receive the Player Of The Month award for August 🙏🏾🙏🏾
We have a great group this season 🙌🏾 We will continue to work hard as a team to build on our good start after the International Break. See you soon! 🦅🔴🔵 @CPFC pic.twitter.com/hRYuiABA45
— Jordan Ayew (@jordan_ayew9) September 4, 2023
Ghana’s biggest goal threat is Inaki Williams, with the 29-year-old likely to lead Hughton’s attack. Since breaking through at La Liga side Athletic Bilbao, he has been a mainstay as a center forward, consistently providing the goals, which has seen his side qualify for European competition on multiple occasions. The Black Stars managed to prise him away for Spain following just one appearance for La Roja, and his pace through the middle could prove priceless at AFCON.
For my grandpas. For my parents. For my brother. For my friends. For my girlfriend. For my people. For GHANA. I’m already a Blackstar. pic.twitter.com/zSd6qapwcR
— IÑAKI WILLIAMS (@Williaaams45) September 24, 2022
Ghana’s Biggest Competition
After shocking the world in Qatar, Morocco will be many people’s favorites to go all the way. They might have only lifted the AFCON trophy once in 1976, but they have plenty of squad depth featuring the likes of Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En Nesyri, and Sofyan Amrabat.
Another nation standing in the way of Ghana and AFCON success is champions Senegal. They did well to reach the World Cup knockout stages, and they managed to do so without talisman Sadio Mane. With 36 goals in 97 appearances, he is by far Senegal’s all-time leading scorer. With Mane in their ranks, anything is possible.
From one superstar to another, Mo Salah’s Egypt will also fancy their chances of lifting the trophy after losing in the 2021 final on penalties. Liverpool were reportedly asked if they would accept a bid in the region of €200m for the 31-year-old, which they politely declined. Egypt’s main man has shown no signs of slowing down and has the ability to single-handedly drag his nation to glory.
While there's an abundance of strong nations in the mix, you get the feeling Chris Hughton is building something special. Who’s to say the Black Stars can’t make history?