The Ghana Black Stars’ struggle to qualify for the 2025 AFCON has reignited discussions about the team’s performance over the past two decades. Their recent 2-0 defeat to Sudan has placed them in a precarious position within their qualifying group, a situation that mirrors their failure to qualify for AFCON 2004 when the tournament was hosted in Tunisia. This has sparked fears among fans that a troubling pattern is repeating, especially when North African countries play host.
The loss against Sudan is particularly alarming as Ghana, historically a powerhouse in African football, has not performed well in recent AFCON editions. In the 2021 and 2023 AFCON tournaments, the Black Stars suffered early eliminations, disappointing fans who have grown accustomed to the team’s dominant presence in continental competitions. Their inconsistency has been met with harsh criticism on social media, with some fans calling for changes in coaching staff, team selection, and even the Ghana Football Association’s management approach.
On Twitter, the hashtag #BlackStars has been buzzing with reactions. Fans expressed their frustration over the team’s performance against Sudan, highlighting issues such as the lack of tactical discipline, poor decision-making, and uninspiring leadership on the field. One tweet read, “How long are we going to accept this? We have talent, but no proper strategy,” while another user added, “The Black Stars we know are gone. This team has no direction.”
Many fans also pointed out a recurring issue: the team’s failure to capitalize on opportunities in crucial matches. This has been a theme across several of their recent campaigns, and it has led to a growing sentiment that the current squad lacks the grit and determination that once defined Ghanaian football. Others argue that the team has been over-reliant on individual talent rather than cohesive teamwork, which has proven insufficient in the face of well-organized opponents like Sudan.
As the next qualifying matches approach, the pressure is mounting on the Black Stars to deliver. The team must win their remaining games to have any chance of securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON, a task that is easier said than done given the current form of their opponents.
If the Black Stars fail to qualify for AFCON 2025, it would mark another chapter in a difficult period for Ghanaian football. Fans, still nostalgic for the days of past glory, continue to hope for a turnaround, but with time running out, the window for success is narrowing. This challenge—especially under the shadow of North African-hosted AFCON tournaments—could define the team’s trajectory for years to come.