Black Stars qualification for 2025 AFCON possible but it will be difficult – George Afriyie

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President George Afriyie has expressed doubt about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Despite their pursuit of a fifth continental title, Ghana’s national team remains winless after four qualifying matches.

The Black Stars started with a 1-0 loss to Angola, followed by a 1-1 draw against Niger in Berkane. Hopes for a turnaround in their doubleheader against Sudan were dashed as Ghana was held to a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium before losing 2-0 in the return leg. This series of setbacks has left the team third in Group F with only two points.

In an interview with Pure FM in Kumasi, Afriyie acknowledged that while anything could happen in the final matches, he believes Ghana’s qualification hopes are effectively over. He stressed the disappointment of missing out on the expanded AFCON tournament in Morocco, calling it “a disaster” for the team.

“It is football, and anything can happen, but for me, it is over for us,” he said. “It’s worrying because the tournament has been expanded, yet we still struggle to qualify. To me, it’s a disaster.”

The Black Stars are set to conclude their qualification bid with upcoming games against Angola and Niger. They will play Angola on November 15 at Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda, followed by a home game against Niger at Accra Sports Stadium on November 18.