AFCON 2027Q: Ibrahim Tanko ‘proud’ to be part of Black Stars interim technical team ahead of Somalia clash

Black Stars interim assistant coach Ibrahim Tanko has stated that he is proud and considers it an honour to step into the role to help the team bounce back from their difficult start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.

Ghana suffered a disappointing start to the qualifiers in a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké before losing 4-2 to Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium.

These back-to-back defeats eventually led to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) mutually parting ways with former head coach Carlos Queiroz.

A five-member committee was set up by the GFA and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation to interview and recommend a new coach for the Black Stars.

Ahead of the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, Kim Lars Björkegren was appointed to serve as the interim head coach, with Tanko, Godwin Attram serving as his assistants.

Ghana prepares to face Somalia in a doubleheader in November, with the first game on November 12 and the second on November 16.

In an interview with Joy Sports, Tanko, who also doubles up as head coach of Medeama, says that even though he is not happy about the current performance and results from the Black Stars, he still considers being called to help the national team as a privilege.

"I am proud to be one of those who can help Ghana in this very tough situation.”

"For me, national duty is something special. I have served Ghana in different capacities, and whenever the opportunity comes to contribute, I see it as a privilege.

"The situation may be challenging, but we must be ready to give our best," he stated.

Ghana sits at the bottom of Group C and are hoping to get their qualifiers back on track, having missed out on the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

The interim technical team is expected to announce the squad this week as they gear up for their most decisive match.