Ghana captain André Ayew has described the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a tougher competition than the FIFA World Cup as he sets his sights on leading the Black Stars to their first continental title in over four decades.
Speaking ahead of the 2023 AFCON, which runs from January 13 to February 11, 2024, Ayew shared his perspective based on vast experience at both global and continental levels. The 34-year-old has featured in three FIFA World Cups (2010, 2014 and 2022) and seven AFCON tournaments (2008, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021), giving him a unique insight into the demands of both competitions.
According to Ayew, AFCON presents a different level of intensity and challenge. “This tournament is even harder than the World Cup,” he said during a farewell dinner organised for the Black Stars. “When it comes to fighting, determination and energy, AFCON is the hardest tournament in the world. The only way we can succeed is by being together and staying united.”
Ayew heads into the tournament chasing several historic milestones. He is Ghana’s all-time top scorer at the AFCON with 10 goals and needs just three more appearances to become the most-capped player in the history of the competition. He is also set to become only the third player to feature in eight AFCON tournaments and is aiming to be the first player to score in seven different editions of the competition.
Despite his individual achievements, continental success has eluded Ayew so far. He suffered heartbreak in two AFCON finals, losing with Ghana in 2010 and again in 2015. Those near misses, however, have only strengthened his desire to finally lift the trophy as captain.
Ghana have not won the Africa Cup of Nations since 1982, and Ayew is determined to end the long wait. With questions surrounding his future and age no longer on his side, the upcoming tournament could be his final AFCON appearance, adding extra motivation to his leadership role.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group B alongside Cape Verde, Egypt and Mozambique. Ghana will open their campaign against Cape Verde on January 14, before taking on Egypt and Mozambique in what promises to be a demanding group.
As the tournament approaches, Ayew’s message is clear: unity, resilience and collective effort will be key if Ghana are to conquer what he believes is football’s toughest tournament and finally reclaim continental glory.
