Currently, the Black Stars sit in third place in Group F with just one point after two matches, raising concerns about their chances of reaching the tournament, which will be held in Morocco next year.

Akonnor, however, remains optimistic and has called for calm, urging the nation to focus on the team's overall progress rather than their early struggles in the AFCON qualifiers. 

In an interview with the Graphic Sports yesterday, the former Black Stars captain emphasised that the team’s performance in their World Cup qualifiers should be factored into any assessment of their potential.

"Qualifying should not be a problem. I will be surprised if they don’t qualify, but we have to do well when we play in the competition proper," Akonnor said.

He admitted that the team's current standing was far from ideal but remained confident that they would bounce back in the upcoming fixtures.

The Black Stars are scheduled to face Sudan in a crucial double-header, starting with a home game at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, followed by an away match in Libya five days later.

These matches will be pivotal in determining Ghana’s chances of qualification, as they aim to secure maximum points.

Akonnor, who previously managed the national team, pointed to the slow start that the Black Stars often experience in qualifiers but expressed faith that once the team found its rhythm, they would surprise the nation.

"It’s not good to play two matches and get one point, but I know and hope they will bounce back," he added.

Ghana’s early struggles in the AFCON qualifiers have led to growing doubt among fans and pundits alike, but Akonnor remains focused on the bigger picture. 

He reiterated that the ultimate goal was not just qualification but making an impact at the tournament itself.

"They should try to make an impact and do well."