Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has expressed deep remorse following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Niger in Accra marked the conclusion of a winless qualification campaign, leaving the team at the bottom of Group F with three draws and three defeats.
In a heartfelt statement shared on his Facebook page, Okraku acknowledged the pain shared by fans and the broader football community, describing the outcome as a significant setback for the nation.
“From the highest heights of world football on March 29, 2022, to the lowest ebb of AFCON qualifying matches. My heart bleeds. This is not what we wanted or bargained for,” he wrote.
Okraku, serving his second term as GFA President, emphasized the need for unity and honest reflection to address the challenges plaguing Ghanaian football.
“At this point, only cool heads can win. We, as leaders of our sport, must stay together, be honest with ourselves, and fix this problem. The road to recovery is bumpy, but with collective efforts and patience, Ghana will rise again,” he stated.
Despite recent disappointments, including early exits in the 2021 and 2023 AFCON tournaments, Okraku remained optimistic, urging fans to remain hopeful.
“As a Black Stars fan and leader, I share in your pain. This is a temporary setback. It shall be well,” he concluded.
The GFA President’s remarks reflect the determination to rebuild and regain Ghana’s position in African football, even amid mounting criticism and disappointment.