Otto Addo Links Kudus’ Red Card to Disappointment Over AFCON Qualifiers

Ghana head coach Otto Addo has offered insight into the red card received by Mohammed Kudus in West Ham’s 4-1 loss to Tottenham on October 19, suggesting it stemmed from frustration following Ghana’s disappointing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sudan.

Kudus, who captained the Black Stars in their 0-0 draw and 2-0 defeat to Sudan, was sent off for violent conduct after a VAR review. This suspension means Kudus will miss several games for West Ham, including fixtures against Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Everton, Newcastle United, and Arsenal.

Addo believes the red card could be linked to the emotional toll Kudus, along with other players, felt after Ghana’s poor showing in the qualifiers. “They showed extra effort in their clubs. They regret it, and you could see that maybe their emotions were still high. They feel for the nations,” Addo said. “Maybe Kudus was also disappointed with the last games we had with the national team. This is the only way they can show it: through their performance.”

As the Black Stars prepare for their crucial AFCON qualifiers against Angola on November 15 and Niger on November 18, they remain third in Group F, with just two points from four games. Ghana must win both matches and hope Sudan, who have seven points, lose their remaining games to qualify.