Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has thrown his support behind head coach Carlos Queiroz to continue with the national team, while expressing confidence that Ghana can qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Queiroz, 73, was appointed in April on a short-term contract following the dismissal of Otto Addo in March and led the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Although Ghana showed signs of improvement during the tournament, uncertainty remains over the Portuguese coach’s future after speculation surrounding his position. Queiroz later clarified that he had not resigned and remained in charge.

Ati-Zigi, who featured in two matches under Queiroz during the World Cup, said he was unaware of the coach’s contractual situation but believes keeping him would be beneficial for the team.

“I don't know about his contract situation, but I feel he is a great coach, and I love how he brought about the positivity in camp. But if the leadership wants him to stay, it will be a good decision,” he told Sporty FM.

The goalkeeper, who plays for Swiss side St. Gallen, also believes Ghana has the quality and determination needed to return to the Africa Cup of Nations after missing the previous edition in Morocco.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, which begin in September, as they seek to secure a place at the tournament to be hosted jointly by Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

Ati-Zigi believes the current squad has enough talent and hunger to achieve qualification.

“If you look at the players we have, I think we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON next year. These are young and hungry players,” he said.

He added that Ghana can make a strong impact at the tournament if they secure qualification.

“I believe we can make a statement with what we have as a group in the AFCON next year,” he added.

Ghana has been drawn in Group C of the AFCON qualifiers alongside regional rivals Ivory Coast, Somalia and Rwanda, with the team aiming to return to Africa’s biggest football competition after failing to qualify for the 2025 edition.

The Black Stars’ focus on the AFCON qualifiers comes after their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended at the Round of 32 stage. Ghana opened the tournament with a 1-0 win over Panama before drawing goalless with England, but a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final group match saw them finish third in Group L.

Their World Cup run came to an end following a narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia, with Jhon Arias scoring the decisive goal in the 14th minute, right after defender Marvin Senaya suffered a hamstring injury and was substituted with Alidu Seidu.