In an emotional statement, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has expressed his deep sorrow over the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team, which finished bottom of Group F with only three points from six matches, saw their hopes dashed following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Niger in Accra.

Okraku, who has long been a central figure in Ghana football, reflected on the stark contrast between the team’s recent high of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup and their painful setback in the AFCON qualifiers. “From the highest heights of world football on March 29, 2022, to the lowest ebb of AFCON qualifying matches. My heart bleeds. This is definitely not what we wanted or hoped for,” he lamented.

The GFA President, who has remained a constant presence in the sport, called for composure and unity as Ghana faces the aftermath of their failure. “At this point, only cool heads can win. As leaders of our sport, we will stay together, be honest, and work to fix this problem,” Okraku said. He emphasized that the road to recovery will not be easy, but he remained optimistic that the country would rise again through collective effort and patience.

With the GFA Executive Council meeting scheduled to discuss the future of the national team and coach Otto Addo, Okraku shared in the collective pain of Ghanaians, stating, “As a Black Stars fan and as the leader, I share in your pain. We will rise from this temporary setback. It shall be well.”

In the face of increasing pressure, the GFA is expected to make critical decisions about the team’s future to restore the Black Stars to their former glory.