Jordan Ayew Shifts Focus to AFCON and World Cup Qualifiers After Ghana’s Exit
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has called on Ghana to build on the positives from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the national team is making steady progress despite its Round of 32 elimination.
The Black Stars bowed out of the tournament following a narrow defeat to Colombia, but Ayew believes there are encouraging signs under head coach Carlos Queiroz after the team successfully advanced beyond the group stage.
Reflecting on Ghana’s campaign, the skipper highlighted the importance of recognising the strides the team has made in a relatively short period.
“We are improving slowly, we managed to qualify from the group,” Ayew said.
Ghana reached the knockout rounds after collecting four points in Group L, defeating Panama before holding England to a goalless draw. Although they were unable to progress beyond the Round of 32, the Black Stars earned praise for their disciplined performances throughout the tournament.
Ayew believes the experience gained at the World Cup should now serve as a platform for future success rather than a source of disappointment.
The forward stressed that the squad must quickly turn its attention to the challenges ahead, with crucial qualification matches and continental ambitions on the horizon.
“Now we need to focus on the qualifiers and the next AFCON,” he added.
With the tournament now behind them, Ghana will begin preparations for their upcoming qualification campaigns, aiming to secure a place at the next Africa Cup of Nations while continuing their push towards future World Cup success.
