Former Ghanaian midfielder, Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, is optimistic that the Black Stars will not face an injury crisis at the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
Ghana secured their place in the AFCON competition, set to be hosted in Ivory Coast next year, with a 2-1 victory over the Central African Republic in the final Group E qualifier held at the Baba Yara Stadium.
Ghana is on a mission to end their 41-year AFCON trophy drought, and Badu believes that one crucial factor in achieving this extraordinary goal is the physical condition and health of the players.
Badu expressed his thoughts during an interview with Accra-based Radio Gold, highlighting the significance of player cohesion within the team. He pointed out that missing key players at critical stages can affect the team’s performance, leading to a reliance on individual brilliance, as was evident during the qualifiers.
Throughout the qualifiers, Ghana grappled with numerous injury issues, with players like Tariq Lamptey, Mohammed Salisu, and Daniel Kofi Kyereh spending extended periods on the sidelines due to injuries. Others, such as Majeed Ashimeru, Gideon Mensah, Baba Rahman, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, and Alidu Seidu, also faced injury setbacks at various points, highlighting a significant medical concern within the team.
Despite these challenges, Badu remains hopeful that with the abundance of quality within the squad and strong support, the Black Stars can make a substantial impact in Ivory Coast during the upcoming AFCON tournament.
