President Mahama urges Black Stars to move on after AFCON 2025 qualification disappointment

President John Dramani Mahama has encouraged the Black Stars to stay positive despite their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana, a four-time African champion, will miss the continental tournament for the first time in 20 years after finishing at the bottom of their qualification group. AFCON 2025 is set to take place in Morocco later this year.

During a visit to the team at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday, Mahama urged the players to put the disappointment behind them and focus on their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

“Before you start the qualifiers, let’s put the AFCON debacle behind us and look forward, knowing that we can redeem ourselves," he said.

"I know that in the World Cup qualifiers, you’re going to redeem yourselves. And if we play well, we will qualify," he added.

Expressing confidence in the squad’s ability, he added, “I believe you will bounce back in the World Cup qualifiers. If we play well, we will secure our place.”

Mahama also highlighted the importance of regaining the support of Ghanaians through strong performances.

“Ghanaians will find it in their hearts to come fully behind the team again. And I know you can do it. You’re all talented players," he said.

"We’re going to continue to support you, not only for the World Cup but beyond. We think that we must build a very strong team," he added.

The Black Stars are set to face Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, before heading to Morocco to take on Madagascar on Monday, March 24, in their Matchday 5 and 6 qualifiers.

With AFCON qualification out of reach, the team is now focused on bouncing back and securing a spot at the FIFA World Cup.