Black Stars have missed out on qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with head coach Otto Addo attributing the setback to their inability to win their home games.
The team’s hopes of reaching the continent’s premier football tournament were dashed following a 1-1 draw against Angola in their Matchday 5 clash at Estádio 11 de Novembro.
Ghana had entered the game needing a win against Angola and another victory in their final match against Niger. Their chances were briefly revived after Sudan suffered a 4-0 defeat to Niger. However, the Black Stars failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
Reflecting on the campaign, the 45-year-old coach emphasized the importance of home results, stating that winning away matches is significantly harder due to the strength of host teams.
“In general, we have to look at all the games we played, especially our home games,” Addo stated.
“We lost to Angola, where we were better. In these tournaments, you have to win your home games; very, very important.
“And if you don’t win, it is always difficult to play away and try to win because every nation is strong at home,” he added.
Ghana’s home performance during the qualifiers included a draw and a loss, leaving them at the bottom of Group F with just two points after five games.
With no chance of progressing, their final match against Niger holds no significance.
This elimination marks a significant setback for the Black Stars, who will miss the AFCON for the first time in 21 years.
