Ghana head coach Otto Addo has issued a heartfelt apology following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The team’s hopes were dashed after a 1-1 draw against Angola last Friday and a 2-1 defeat to Niger in Accra on Monday. Despite mounting pressure and disappointing results, Addo had previously refrained from apologising, instead taking a defensive stance before Monday’s game.
However, following the loss to Niger, the coach finally expressed his regret for the team’s underperformance. “I am ready to apologise. I am so sorry that we did not do well and qualify. I am sorry because I know how it feels and how Ghanaians are hurt. I am so sorry,” he said, responding to questions from journalists.
This marks the first time since 2004 that Ghana has failed to qualify for the AFCON, as Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah led Sudan alongside Angola to secure qualification from Group F.
The Black Stars endured a disastrous campaign, finishing with no wins in six matches, scoring just three goals, and failing to win a single home match.
Otto Addo’s future with the Black Stars will be determined on Wednesday when the Ghana Football Association’s Executive Council meets to discuss the team’s performance and the way forward.
