Josiah
The Black Stars ended their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Niger in Accra. This result not only underscores the team’s lackluster performances throughout the qualifiers but also leaves them at the bottom of Group F with just 3 points—a dismal outcome for a team with such a storied history in African football.
The match against Niger reflected the challenges the Black Stars faced during the campaign. Despite playing on home turf, the team struggled to find cohesion and capitalize on key opportunities. Niger took an early lead, putting Ghana under immediate pressure. While debutant Jerry Afriyie scored a stunning goal to briefly level the game and raise fans’ hopes, Niger quickly regained their advantage, leaving Ghana chasing the match once again.
The game highlighted several issues, including a lack of composure under pressure and tactical disarray. Despite the talent within the squad, the inability to deliver cohesive and disciplined performances has become a glaring concern.
Finishing last in Group F—alongside Angola, Sudan, and Niger—has been a bitter pill for supporters to swallow. Once a dominant force in African football, the Black Stars’ poor form, missed opportunities, and apparent lack of strategic planning during this campaign have raised serious questions about the team’s preparation, management, and overall direction.
The disappointment among fans and analysts is palpable, with many labeling the campaign as a low point in Ghana’s footballing history. This failure has not only damaged the team’s reputation but also cast doubt on their readiness to compete at the highest levels.
As the AFCON 2025 tournament moves on without them, the Black Stars face a critical juncture. There is an urgent need for reflection, restructuring, and a renewed sense of purpose. Fans and stakeholders alike hope that this dismal campaign serves as a wake-up call, prompting meaningful changes to restore the team to its former glory and reestablish Ghana as a powerhouse in African football
bSource:Omanghana.com
