Ghana’s national football coach, Otto Addo, has responded to mounting criticism following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team’s 1-1 draw with Angola on Friday ended their hopes of securing a spot in the tournament scheduled to take place in Morocco next year.

The disappointing result leaves Ghana winless in five qualifying matches, sitting fourth in Group F with just three points and only two goals scored. Fans and pundits alike have voiced their frustration, with many calling for Addo to step down as head coach.

Addressing the criticism during a press conference, Addo defended his credentials, citing the wealth of experience he has gained under top-tier coaches such as Jürgen Klopp, Matthias Sammer, and Edin Terzić during his time at Borussia Dortmund.

“I trained under Sammer. I trained under Klopp. I was assistant to Edin Terzić, who was Dortmund’s head coach,” Addo stated. “People can judge me, and surely, most people judge by results, which were not good. But the value of criticism changes when it comes from someone like Klopp rather than others saying ‘this is bad.’”

The Black Stars will conclude their qualifying campaign with a home match against Niger on Monday at the Accra Sports Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT, and while Ghana’s AFCON dreams are over, fans hope for a strong finish to salvage some pride.