According to the Communication director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum Black Stars ultimate aim for engaging Japan and South Korea in the Kirin Cup has been achieved.
Despite, Ghana losing all two matches and failing to register a goal Asante Twum insist it was a fantastic exercise and both the technical team and management of the national team are satisfied with the performance. The four-times African Cup of nations winners played Japan and South Korea as part of sharpening the team for 2026 FIFA World Cup, having failed to secure qualification to 2025 African Cup of nations tournament.
With huge expectations on Black Stars prior to the Kirin Cup, it turned out to be disappointing after leaving the team winless in the November international window. Ghana lost 2-0 to Japan and 1-0 to South Korea, however, Asante Twum has defended the Black Stars, insisting their purpose for the friendlies is achieved.
“We had to deal with injuries, and we lost against Japan and South Korea but the purpose for which these friendlies were played has been achieved”, Twum told Asempa FM in an interview.
In March 2026, Black Stars will convene to continue their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.