Former Youth and Sports Minister Elvis Afriyie Ankrah has called on Ghanaians to forgive the Black Stars after their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana endured a disappointing campaign, finishing bottom of Group F with three points from six matches, marking the first time in 20 years that the team will miss the prestigious tournament, set to be hosted in Morocco.

Speaking to GHOne TV, Afriyie Ankrah appealed for understanding, suggesting that unresolved issues from the past still haunt the team.

“I think as a country, we never truly exorcised the issues that arose during the 2014 World Cup,” he said. “There was too much focus on the drama, but the root causes were not addressed. We need to forgive them and let go. Any adult will understand what I mean. Every nation needs to heal.”

Afriyie Ankrah also highlighted a growing disconnect between the Black Stars and the Ghanaian public.

“The coach mentioned something significant that has been largely overlooked. He said part of the reason for their loss to Niger was the hatred directed at him and the team by Ghanaians. That has far-reaching implications,” he noted.

He further recalled the hostile chants directed at Mohammed Kudus as he prepared to take a penalty, adding, “There is a disconnection somewhere. Every nation has a soul, and right now, ours feels fractured.”

Despite widespread criticism and calls for the overhaul of the technical team, Afriyie Ankrah urged a focus on unity and long-term solutions.

The Black Stars will now pivot to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, resuming in March 2025 with matches against Chad and Madagascar.