Black Stars defender Jerome Opoku says Ghana’s painful failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has ignited an even greater drive to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana currently tops Group I with 15 points, three ahead of second-placed Comoros, and with four matches left, Opoku believes the team’s hunger to bounce back is pushing them toward qualification.

“We have much bigger motivation now,” Opoku told Flashscore. “Missing out on the AFCON was a huge disappointment for us, for the fans, and for the whole country. That setback has given us a deeper hunger to make things right by qualifying for the World Cup.”

The defender, who starred in Ghana’s convincing win over Madagascar, insists the team’s renewed focus is firmly fixed on securing a place at the global showpiece.

“I am 200% confident of qualifying,” he declared.

“That’s the goal, and we know it won’t come easy. But we’ve regrouped, and we’re determined to give everything to stay on top and get the job done.”

With four crucial fixtures remaining, the Black Stars are aiming to channel their frustration into fuel for redemption on the road to 2026.