AFCON 2023 Qualifiers: Bechem United forward Hafiz Konkoni earns Black Stars call-up

Head coach of the Black Stars, Chris Hughton has invited Bechem United striker Hafiz Konkoni to join the national team for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Madagascar.

Konkoni who scored 15 goals in 25 games in the just-ended betPawa premier league for The Hunters becomes the first local player to earn a call-up to the men’s senior national team under Chris Hughton.

This has been confirmed by a communique issued by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on Sunday night.

“Ghana Coach Chris Hughton has called up Bechem United forward Hafiz Konkoni for next weekend’s TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.

“Konkoni will join the squad on Monday to begin preparations for the crucial AFCON match in Antananarivo.

“His inclusion takes the number of players to 25 as Ghana aim to pick all the spoils to make another Africa Cup of Nations tournament,” the Ghana FA statement said.

Ghana takes on Madagascar in the last but one match of Group E in the qualifiers for the 2023 AFCON scheduled to be played on Sunday, June 18.

A win or draw against Madagascar will secure qualification for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast.