Ghana’s national team coach, Otto Addo, has firmly dismissed calls for his resignation following the Black Stars’ shock elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Despite widespread disappointment and mounting criticism, Addo remains resolute, emphasizing his commitment to the team and belief in their future.

Ghana, four-time AFCON champions and 1982 winners, suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat to Niger on Monday at the Accra Sports Stadium. The loss, compounded by a prior 1-1 draw with Angola on Friday, sealed their fate, marking the first time they failed to qualify for the tournament since 2004.

Addo’s post-match press conference was marked by defiance. “I’m not someone who just gives up,” he declared. “If I had that mindset, I would never have become a player or a coach. People shouting for my resignation don’t define me. I know where I’ve come from and what I still have to offer.”

Adding to Ghana’s woes, former Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah successfully guided Sudan to the AFCON finals, achieving what Ghana could not. This juxtaposition has further fueled the debate over Addo’s tenure.

Despite the disappointment, Ghana is already turning its focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, hoping to redeem their battered reputation on the global stage.