Former Black Queens head coach Bashiru Hayford has criticised Ghana’s decision to appoint an interim technical team for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Somalia, describing the move as “dangerous and surprising”.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation have placed Kim Lars Bjorkegren in charge of the temporary coaching set-up. Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram have been appointed as his assistants, while former Black Stars goalkeeper Fatawu Dauda will work as goalkeepers’ coach.
Hayford said he was surprised by the composition of the team, particularly with Ghana preparing for a crucial double-header against Somalia in November.
Speaking on Kessben FM, he referred to his previous work with the Somali national team while explaining his concerns about the appointments.
“I was the first coach to lead Somalia to victory in an international match. I have come to realise that it’s not about where you are, but where you belong. The appointment of the Black Stars interim coaches is dangerous and surprising,” he said.
The Black Stars are already under pressure after losing their opening two qualifying matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia.
Those defeats have left Ghana bottom of Group C without a point and raised doubts over their chances of reaching the 2027 tournament, which will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Ghana also failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, increasing the importance of the upcoming matches as the team attempts to avoid another major setback.
The interim coaching staff will take charge of both matches against Somalia in November. Each fixture is scheduled to be played at the Accra Sports Stadium, giving the temporary team an immediate challenge as the four-time African champions attempt to revive their campaign.
The GFA and the Sports Ministry are continuing to look for a permanent head coach following the departure of Carlos Queiroz.
A substantive appointment is expected before Ghana play their final round of qualifying matches next year. The new coach will be tasked with helping the Black Stars recover from their poor start and secure qualification for the continental tournament.
