2025 Hockey AFCON: Qualifying for the World Cup will be a success – Black Sticks Team Manager

Team Manager of Ghana’s national men’s hockey team, the Black Sticks, Lebene Adjoyi, says the team is prepared to compete in the 2025 Hockey Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.

The 12th edition of the Hockey AFCON is scheduled to take place from October 11 to 18, 2025 in Ismailia. Ghana’s Black Sticks will be aiming to lift the continental title for the first time since 1974.

Standing on their way are Nigeria, Zambia, Kenya, hosts Egypt, and defending champions South Africa, who won the title in 2022 when Ghana hosted the tournament in Accra.

Despite the tough competition, Team Manager Lêbênè Adjor is confident his team is well prepared for the challenge ahead.

“The team is highly motivated. We’ve trained hard and are really ready for the task ahead,” he said.

“We’ve analyzed our opponents, worked on our weaknesses, and identified areas where we can capitalise on their flaws to come out victorious after the tournament.”

Lebene also revealed that the team’s ultimate goal is to qualify for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, to be hosted in Belgium and the Netherlands.

“Our main target is to qualify for the World Cup. Securing a place on the world stage will be a major success for us.”

He further acknowledged that, despite facing some logistical and financial challenges during their preparations, the players remain highly motivated to represent Ghana.

“We couldn’t go into camp as early as planned due to financial challenges, especially regarding accommodation and equipment. But we’ve managed to make the most of the limited resources available. Wearing the national jersey is an honour, and that alone drives the boys to give their best.”

The Black Sticks are expected to depart Ghana for Egypt on October 8, 2025.

Here are the full squads for the Men and Women hockey teams:

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