Brighton defender Tariq Lamptey suggests how Black Stars can end trophy barren

Brighton and Hove Albion defender, Tariq Lamptey is optimistic about the Ghanaian national team, the Black Stars, ending the country’s long-standing trophy drought through proper preparation and focused determination.

Ghana has struggled to secure a major trophy for the past 41 years, with their last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory occurring in 1982. Despite making notable appearances in the AFCON finals in 1992, 2010, and 2015, the team fell short of clinching the ultimate prize.

However, Tariq, who recently switched nationalities to represent Ghana, believes that the prolonged wait for a trophy could soon come to an end if all involved parties execute their roles effectively.

“Football is a very difficult game. It’s hard [because] you are playing against top world-class players at the highest level. But we believe in ourselves. In football, you don’t go into any game thinking you will lose,” he told Joy Sports.

“We always have the feeling that you are going to win. You always have the feeling that if you work hard, prepare right, then you get the right result.

“So we don’t really worry about the external factors. If we concentrate and do what is right for us, we are confident [we will end the drought].”

The Brighton and Hove Albion defender had previously expressed his desire to participate in the 2023 AFCON, which will be held in Ivory Coast, with hopes of aiding Ghana in securing the trophy.

Following the conclusion of the 2022/23 season, Tariq took a vacation in Ghana after being sidelined due to an injury.

Chris Hughton, the coach of the Black Stars, will be aiming to guide the team to victory in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast next year.