With the countdown to the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2024 well underway, the Ghana national beach soccer team is gearing up for a competitive return to the continental stage.
Coach Daniel Neequaye Kotey, who has been at the helm of the team’s preparations, recently shared his thoughts exclusively with CAFOnline.com ahead of Ghana’s opening match against hosts Egypt.
Ghana is placed in Group A, alongside Egypt, Morocco, and tournament debutants Tanzania, and aims to secure a ticket to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025. Speaking confidently, Coach Kotey emphasized the team’s readiness, the strength of their tactical approach, and the unity within the squad.
The team, which last appeared at the tournament in 2016, has been training rigorously and is determined to make Ghana proud. In this exclusive interview, Coach Kotey discusses his team’s preparations, their chances in the competition, and the key players to watch out for.
Interview Q&A:
Coach Kotey, how do you feel about Ghana’s chances in this tournament, and how has the team been preparing?
First of all, I want to thank Ghanaians. Our preparation began in Keta, Ghana, two weeks before we arrived here. We’ve trained well, and we’re not afraid of any team in the tournament because we have played against some of them before. We know them, and last year we played well, so we’re confident. We are still preparing here in Egypt and are ready for the matches ahead.
What are your expectations for the tournament?
Even though I have new players on the team, we also have about four experienced ones. They have learned more tactical skills and are very disciplined. There is a strong understanding among them, and I believe that will make a difference. I have no concerns about goalkeeping this time; we are ready.
Do you feel any pressure playing against Egypt, especially since they are the host nation?
No, there’s no pressure on me or my team. We’ve played against Egypt before and even defeated them in Accra. This is not the first time we’re meeting them. Although they are playing at home, I’ve told the boys to stay calm because we don’t feel any pressure. We are here to surprise them.
What can you say about the team’s tactical preparations?
We have focused a lot on discipline and tactics. We’re preparing match by match, starting with Egypt, and then we’ll shift our focus to Morocco. We’ve played against Morocco in Seychelles too, so we know their style of play. We are not afraid of any team.
How do you assess the strength of your group, which includes Egypt, Morocco, and Tanzania?
Our group is very competitive. We have Egypt and Morocco, who are both strong teams, and Tanzania is new, but we are watching their games closely. People might underestimate Ghana, but we are coming to surprise them. We’re confident and ready for this challenge.
Which players should Ghanaians and fans look out for during the tournament?
A6: Our goalkeeper Robert, and players Ahorlu, who all played a role in our win against Egypt, will be crucial. These players are ready and waiting to make an impact. We have a solid team that Ghanaians should be proud of.
What is your main objective for this tournament?
Our main goal is to qualify for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. We are taking it step by step, but that’s our aim. We need the support of Ghanaians, and I’m confident we can achieve it.
What advantages do you think your team has going into this tournament?
Our substitutes are strong, and we have a well-balanced team. The players have shown great discipline and understanding. We believe in our game plan, and that gives us confidence going forward.
How has the team been adjusting to the conditions in Egypt?
We have been training here for two days, and the pitch and sand are different from what we have in Ghana. But that’s an advantage for us because it allows us to run faster. We are adapting well and feel prepared.
Q10: What is your message to Ghanaians, especially those who may doubt the team’s chances?
A10: I want to assure Ghanaians that we are prepared and ready for this tournament. We are here to win for Mother Ghana, and we need their support. We welcome all Ghanaians in Egypt to come out and cheer us on. We will make you proud.