'Afcon Is Even Harder Than World Cup'

A top African star has claimed that the Africa Cup of Nations is "even harder" than the FIFA World Cup.

The 2023 Afcon is set to get underway on Saturday, 13 January in the Ivory Coast, marking the 34th edition of the exciting tournament.

Four-time champions Ghana are widely considered to be one of the favourites to clinch the crown alongside the likes of the number one ranked CAF team Morocco, defending champions Senegal, and hosts Cote d'Ivoire. 

Read: Official: Sancho Completes Man Utd Departure

The Black Stars haven't had much joy in the competition for several decades, as their last title came all the way back in 1982. They find themselves in Group B alongside record winners Egypt (seven titles), Cape Verde, and Mozambique.

The west African nation held a farewell dinner in Kumasi on Wednesday evening before jetting off to the tournament, where they will be making their 23 appearance at the showpiece. 

Captain Ayew is set to make a record-equalling eighth appearance at Afcon, joining legends Rigobert Song of Cameroon and Ahmed Hassan of Egypt.

Speaking at the dinner, the 34-year-old made a bold claim about the upcoming competition, according to Joy Online.

"This tournament is even harder than the World Cup," he said during the team's farewell dinner with Ghana's president, Nana Akufo-Addo.

"We know that it is the hardest tournament, for me, in the world when it comes to fighting, determination, and energy so the only way we can do this is by being together and being united.

"And for that Your Excellency, I can assure you that we are united and we want to do it."

With Ghana looking to end their 42-year trophy drought, their best showing at Afcon in recent history was a runners-up finish at the 2015 edition. 

Read: '€30million Won't Change My Life'

You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.

Click here to register!

WATCH: