The team’s performance in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers has been far from impressive. The Black Stars opened their campaign with a disappointing 0-1 defeat to Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. In their second match, they managed only a draw 1-1 against Niger, followed by a 0-0 stalemate with Sudan in their third fixture.
These results have sparked frustration among Ghanaians, who are growing increasingly dissatisfied with the team’s lackluster performances and Addo’s leadership. Pulse Ghana Sports examines the situation and highlights three key reasons why the Black Stars must deliver or risk seeing their coach sacked.
Inconsistent Performance
Otto Addo’s second stint as Black Stars head coach has been underwhelming. In six matches, he has recorded three wins, one draw, and two losses, with the team scoring and conceding 10 goals during this period. This inconsistency has raised concerns about Addo’s tactical acumen and the direction of the team.
Since his return, Addo has not brought any significant changes to the squad or its style of play. To succeed in the upcoming match, he must demonstrate greater tactical versatility and introduce new strategies. Failure to secure qualification could provide sufficient grounds for the former Black Stars player to be dismissed.
Points Accumulation
Ghana's performance in terms of point accumulation has been disappointing in the ongoing AFCON qualifiers. The team has secured just 2 points out of a possible 9, a poor showing for a nation that has won the AFCON title four times.
A loss in the second leg against Sudan in Libya would end Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the 35th edition of the tournament in Morocco. With Angola already securing 9 points and Sudan potentially reaching 7 points with a win, Ghana would be left in a precarious position if they fail to win.
Historical records and statistics
Ghana is one of the dominant forces in African football, having made its AFCON debut in 1963 and winning the tournament in 1965, 1978, and 1982. However, the Black Stars have failed to qualify for the tournament in 1962, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1986, 1988, 1990, and 2004.
Following their disappointing performance at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d'Ivoire, where the team returned home with just two points, Ghana must avoid a repeat of history. The weight of the country’s past achievements should serve as motivation for both the players and their coach. A failure to deliver against Sudan could be the final straw for Addo’s tenure as head coach.
Otto Addo must rally the team to victory or face the very real possibility of being sacked, as both fans and football officials grow increasingly frustrated with the Black Stars' performance.