The Black Stars of Ghana, once a dominant force in African football, are facing an unprecedented crisis after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) — their first absence in two decades. According to Wilfred Osei Kweku Palmer, a former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member and President of Tema Youth, the team’s struggles stem from a lack of blessings caused by the sidelining of influential figures within Ghanaian football.

Speaking in a heartfelt interview on Asempa FM, Palmer expressed deep frustration at how he and others who have significantly contributed to the team’s development have been treated.

“Sometimes I wonder why people say the Black Stars are suffering,” Palmer remarked. “The truth is, you cannot treat people like this and expect the senior national team to prosper.”

Having served in various capacities to support the Black Stars over the years, Palmer believes the team’s misfortunes are tied to the neglect and lack of recognition of key contributors.

“The team has no blessings. This is the national team that I have served and supported, and this is how I am being treated? I am sorry, but I am deeply hurt,” he lamented.

Despite the disappointing AFCON failure, the Black Stars have a chance to redeem themselves in March, when they regroup for Matchday five and six games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.