Former Black Stars legend George Alhassan has laid the blame for Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squarely on the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

For the first time in 21 years, the four-time AFCON champions will miss out on the continent’s premier football tournament, set to be hosted in Morocco next year. Despite receiving a lifeline after Niger’s 4-0 victory over Sudan, Ghana could only manage a 1-1 draw against Angola in their Matchday 5 fixture at the Estádio 11 de Novembro.

The disappointing result leaves Ghana at the bottom of Group F with just three points, sealing their elimination.

Speaking on Adom TV’s Sports Arena, Alhassan, who played a pivotal role in Ghana’s 1978 AFCON triumph, criticized the GFA for their decision to reappoint Otto Addo as head coach.

“It was the Ghana Football Association (GFA) who brought in Otto Addo. If we should blame him for the failure, then the GFA must equally be held accountable because they made that decision,” he remarked.

Alhassan also questioned the GFA’s reasoning for bringing back Addo after his earlier tenure ended with Ghana’s group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup.

“The GFA decided to bring Otto Addo back after his previous performance. Who do we blame in this case? The GFA must take responsibility,” he emphasized.

Ghana will conclude their dismal qualifying campaign on Monday with a home game against Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium. Kick-off is set for 16:00 GMT.

The elimination has sparked widespread criticism, with fans and pundits demanding accountability from the country’s football leadership.