On January 3, 2021, Red Bull Salzburg midfielder Majeed Ashimeru expressed confidence that the current Black Stars squad can end Ghana’s 38-year African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title drought.
Speaking to Joy Sports, the 23-year-old highlighted the team’s potential under head coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor to win the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.
Ghana’s AFCON History
Ghana, four-time AFCON champions (1963, 1965, 1978, 1982), last reached the finals in 1992, 2010, and 2015 but fell short of the title. The Black Stars suffered a group-stage exit in 2019 in Egypt, increasing pressure on Akonnor, who has been tasked with delivering the 2021 trophy.
Ashimeru’s Belief in the Squad
Ashimeru, yet to debut officially for the senior national team, praised Akonnor’s approach. “The team went close before, but winning takes effort,” he said. “With Coach Akonnor giving many players chances, I believe we’ll do something great. Hard work will make it happen soon.”
Team Rebuilding Under Akonnor
Akonnor, appointed in January 2020, aims to blend young talents like Ashimeru with veterans to restore Ghana’s AFCON dominance. The Black Stars’ recent performances, including a 6-1 thrashing of Bechem United by Hearts of Oak players, signal a resurgence of form among domestic stars.
Ashimeru’s Role and Future
As a rising star at Red Bull Salzburg, Ashimeru brings dynamism to the midfield. His call for hard work aligns with Ghana’s preparations for AFCON, set for January 2021 in Cameroon, where the team aims to overcome past disappointments and reclaim continental glory.
