Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to prioritise a long-term rebuilding strategy for the Black Stars instead of placing immediate emphasis on winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Kingston’s comments come after Ghana’s elimination from the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32.

The Black Stars were knocked out after Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in the first half, ending Ghana’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament.

Speaking on Joy Prime, the former Hearts of Oak and Great Olympics winger argued that the current squad requires significant development before it can compete for major honours, insisting that the focus should be on building a strong foundation for the future.

We shouldn’t be thinking about winning the AFCON because we do not have a team, Kingston said.

The ex-Ghana star believes the country must adopt a structured approach that includes proper player development and long-term planning to restore the Black Stars to continental dominance.

Despite exiting the World Cup at the Round of 32 stage, Ghana achieved a milestone by reaching the knockout phase for the first time since the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

The four-time African champions will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers as they seek to rebuild ahead of future competitions.

Source: Ghanasoccernet