Tanko embraces Ghana task ahead of Somalia qualifiers

Ibrahim Tanko says helping Ghana through their difficult Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign is a privilege, as the Black Stars prepare for November’s double-header against Somalia.

Speaking to Joy Sports in an interview reported on Tuesday, 3 November, the interim assistant coach acknowledged the team’s struggles but expressed his readiness to contribute.

Ghana lost their opening two Group C matches, going down 2–0 against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké before suffering a 4–2 home defeat to The Gambia. Those results have left the Black Stars needing a response when qualifying resumes.

Tanko is working alongside interim head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and fellow assistant Godwin Attram. Fatawu Dauda serves as goalkeepers coach.

The Ghana Football Association confirmed the arrangement on 16 October, following consultations with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and a recommendation from the committee overseeing the search for a coach.

The association said the appointments apply specifically to November’s fixtures while that recruitment process continues.

For the interim staff, the immediate challenge is to turn that temporary arrangement into an effective preparation programme. Ghana face Somalia on 12 and 16 November, with the two matches offering an opportunity to repair their qualifying position.

Tanko’s message places the emphasis on accepting responsibility during a difficult period. The next test will be translating that commitment into results.