Black Queens midfielder Freda Ayisi has rebuffed suggestions of complacency playing a role in their narrow 1-0 defeat to Zambia in the first leg of the 2024 Olympic Games third-round qualifier.
As the team gears up for the pivotal second leg on Wednesday, February 28, Ayisi remains steadfast in her belief that the team can overturn the deficit.
Under the guidance of coach Nora Hauptle, the Black Queens are poised to face Zambia in Ndola, seeking redemption after their disappointing performance at the Accra Sports Stadium last Friday. Despite the setback, Ayisi, who made her debut in the Accra encounter, emphasized the team's unwavering focus.
Expressing her ambition ahead of the crucial match, Ayisi stated, "It will be amazing for the team to go for the Olympics because it’s a big opportunity to show the world that Ghana can play football and also put us on the map again."
Addressing the speculation surrounding complacency, the Charlton Athletic player asserted, "I feel that the team is good, the team is doing well. It wasn't complacency that made us lose in Accra. We are focused, and sometimes football can go either way, and that’s what happened in the 1st leg."
Ayisi, 29, also provided insights into her adaptation to the team after receiving her maiden call-up, remarking, "I’m adapting and I feel like am doing well especially in training, and that is the best way to adapt. Just train and work hard with the girls and hope I will be on the same level, and we can play football together permanently."
With the return leg set to take place at the Levy Nwanawasa Sports Stadium in Ndola, the Black Queens are determined to showcase their resilience and secure a spot in the next round of Olympic Games qualification.
