I was shocked with Black Stars' failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON - Harry Zakour

Former Hearts of Oak Chief Executive Officer Harry Zakour says he was shocked by Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Black Stars endured a disappointing qualifying campaign, finishing bottom of their group with just three points after suffering three defeats and recording three draws from six matches.

Ghana’s failure to secure a place at the tournament marked the first time in more than two decades that the four-time African champions had missed out on the AFCON.

Reflecting on the setback, Zakour, one of the most decorated executives in Ghanaian football, admitted that the outcome came as a surprise.

“Ghana failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was shocking,” he told Sporty FM.

Despite their AFCON disappointment, the Black Stars secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Ghana subsequently reached the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time since 2010.

The Black Stars are now set to regroup in September as they begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.