Ghana’s Black Stars will kick off their Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 preparations by assembling in Johannesburg next week.
The four-time champions will meet on December 31st to begin a 10-day camp in South Africa ahead of next month’s finals in Cote d’Ivoire, the Ghana FA has announced.
Ghana will play a warm-up friendly against Botswana on January 8th before travelling to Abidjan two days later.
Black Stars Coach Chris Hughton confirmed that training sessions at the Johannesburg camp will be closed to the media and public.
Hughton’s side have been drawn in a tricky Group B alongside giants Egypt, Cape Verde and Mozambique.
They will open their campaign against Cape Verde on January 14th in a rematch of their World Cup playoff earlier this year.
Ghana will then take on record seven-time Afcon winners Egypt on January 18th in a titanic clash between two of the continent’s heavyweights.
The Black Stars will then conclude their group matches against Mozambique on January 22nd.
Hughton is expected to name a strong squad including the likes of Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey and West Ham star Mohammed Kudus.
Captain Andre Ayew will lead the squad as he looks to inspire Ghana to a first Afcon triumph since 1982.
With a total of four titles, Ghana are seeking to close the gap on Egypt and Cameroon’s record tally of five AFCON wins.
After the heartbreak of their 2022 World Cup group stage exit, Ghana are out to make amends on the international stage in Cote d’Ivoire.
But with tricky group opponents, Hughton knows his squad will face a stern test if they are to advance deep into the tournament.
The manager will hope a focused Johannesburg training camp can help Ghana find their best form before the Afcon begins.
With Ayew, Partey and others on board, Ghana still possess the undeniable quality to conquer Africa again 40 years on from their last success.
Editor Paul Akhagbemhe
