Ditch AFCON, focus on World Cup qualification – Coach Frimpong Manso on Black Stars

Frimpong Manso, the head coach of Bibiani Gold Stars, has called for a change in priorities for the Black Stars.

He suggests that the team should shift its focus away from qualifying for the 2025 AFCON and instead concentrate on securing a spot in the World Cup.

Manso’s remarks follow Ghana’s disappointing performance in the AFCON qualifiers. After four matches, the team currently sits third in Group F.

With five points separating the Black Stars from Sudan in second place and seven points behind Angola in first, the path to AFCON qualification looks increasingly difficult.

“We should forget about AFCON and instead focus on World Cup qualification,” Manso stated during an interview with Akoma FM.

Reflecting on the current Black Stars squad, he added, “With this group, we should have easily qualified without any mathematical calculations. Our team has lacked the commitment to truly ‘die for the nation.’ Otto Addo should drop all players who are unwilling to play because, based on their current performances, our local players can outperform them.”

Coach Manso’s comments highlight an increasing belief that the Black Stars need to focus on creating a dedicated and passionate team if they want to reclaim their status in international football.

Ghana will return to action in November for the final two matches in the qualifiers for the 2025 AFCON.

With a slim chance of qualifying for the next continental tournament, Coach Otto Addo and his players will be striving for victories against Angola and Niger.