Let's forgive Black Stars despite AFCON qualifier collapse - Ex-Sports Minister, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah

Former Youth and Sports Minister Elvis Afriyie Ankrah has urged Ghanaians to forgive the Black Stars following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana finished last in Group F with three points, marking their first AFCON absence in 20 years. Despite public calls to overhaul the team and technical staff, Afriyie Ankrah stressed the need for reconciliation, attributing the team’s struggles to unresolved issues from the 2014 World Cup.

He highlighted a disconnection between the team and fans, citing hostility during matches, such as chants against Mohammed Kudus during a penalty.

Afriyie Ankrah called for national unity and reflection to address underlying problems. The Black Stars will now focus on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, starting with Chad and Madagascar in March 2025.