By OkayGoal 
Lawrence Ati-Zigi
Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi believes Ghana has the quality and hunger needed to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and make a strong impression at the tournament in East Africa.
Ghanas focus has now shifted to the AFCON qualifiers following their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where they reached the Round of 32 for the first time since the 2010 edition.
The St. Gallen shot-stopper is optimistic about the teams chances ahead of the qualifiers, which begin in September, insisting that the current squad has the potential to compete at the continental level.
If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players, Ati-Zigi told Sporty FM.
The experienced goalkeeper also expressed confidence that Ghana can go beyond qualification and challenge for success at the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year, he added.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group C for the qualifiers alongside Cte dIvoire, Gambia and Somalia.
Ghana will be hoping to return to Africas biggest football showpiece after missing out on the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco, ending a run of consecutive appearances dating back to 2004.