Black Stars’ AFCON exit: Ghana football needs urgent comprehensive diagnosis, restructuring — Sports Ministry

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has called for a comprehensive diagnosis and restructuring of Ghana football following the Black Stars' early exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

In a statement on Thursday, January 25, the Ministry expressed its profound disappointment with the national team's performance, which saw Ghana knocked out in the group stage for the second tournament in a row.

"This clearly points to the urgent need for a comprehensive diagnosis and restructuring of Ghana football to align with our aspirations in football and beyond," the statement said in part.

It continued: "We recognize the urgent necessity to address the underlying issues and are poised to embrace holistic approach towards rebuilding and reviving our football."

The Black Stars were aiming to improve on their performance at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon, where they also failed to progress past the group stage.

However, they lost their first game against Cape Verde and managed two points from their subsequent games against Egypt and Mozambique in Ivory Coast to crash out early once more.

It is the latest disappointment for Ghanaian football fans, who have high expectations of their national team on the continental and global stage.

The Ministry acknowledged the "disappointment and devastation echoing through the hearts of millions of Ghanaians" following the exit.

The statement signalled that a strategic plan will be announced to identify the root causes of Ghana's struggles and map out a pathway to restore hope and revive the fortunes of both the Black Stars and the domestic game.