Ghana's failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON is a big shame, says ex-striker Majeed Waris

Former Black Stars striker Majeed Waris has expressed his disappointment over Ghana's failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), calling it a significant embarrassment for the nation.

For the first time in two decades, the senior national team will miss out on Africa’s premier football tournament after finishing last in Group F with just three points.

Ghana’s campaign in the qualifiers ended dismally, with the team recording three defeats and three draws in six matches.

The team’s poor performance has sparked widespread criticism from fans, many of whom are demanding the dissolution of the technical team, currently led by Otto Addo.

Reflecting on the situation, Waris, a former key player for the Black Stars, voiced his concerns during an interview with Joy Sports.

"For a player who has played the national team and knows what it means for the whole of the country to qualify for the AFCON, it is a shame to all of us and I believe something must be done about it," he told Joy Sports.

"Everyone is hurt but we will not feel it that much now but rather when the countries are arriving for the tournament and with the joy that comes with it, that is when we will feel the pain more for not qualifying."

Waris acknowledged the collective disappointment but urged stakeholders to focus on rebuilding and preparing for future opportunities.

"We are all not happy with what has happened but we have to look at how we can qualify for the next edition of the AFCON," he added.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is set to take place in Morocco next year.