2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Jordan Ayew aiming to steer Black Stars back to winning ways against Angola and Niger as captain

Ghana’s forward #9 Jordan Ayew celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 group B football match between Mozambique and Ghana at Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan on January 22, 2024. (Photo by Issouf SANOGO / AFP) (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images)Ghanaian striker Jordan Ayew is stepping up to lead the Black Stars as captain in their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger. With Ghana seeking a long-overdue victory after four winless matches, Ayew’s leadership will be pivotal in energising the team and pushing for positive results.The experienced Leicester City forward, known for his resilience and skill on the field, was called up by head coach Otto Addo as part of Ghana’s squad for the November international break. This decision underscores Ayew’s status as a seasoned player who brings both talent and experience, qualities the team will heavily rely on to revitalize their performance in the qualifiers.In last months doubleheader against Sudan, Ayew was in the squad but watched from a supporting role as young star Mohammed Kudus took on the captains armband. Kudus, a rising force in Ghanaian football, was given the captaincy as part of Coach Addo’s strategy to groom future leaders within the team.However, as Coach Addo recently noted, Kudus is still developing his leadership skills, and this shift back to Ayew reflects a need for seasoned guidance in the upcoming matches.As captain, Ayew is not just looking to secure victories but to inspire confidence and cohesion among his teammates. This leadership opportunity allows him to channel his passion for the national team and push to elevate the Black Stars standing on the path to AFCON qualification.