Ghana football deserves better – Seth Panwum after Black Stars' AFCON qualifying defeats

Former National Sports Authority (NSA) chief executive Seth Panwum says Ghana football deserves better after the Black Stars suffered consecutive defeats in their opening two matches of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Ghana have failed to pick up a point in Group C after losing 2-0 to Ivory Coast in Bouake before throwing away a two-goal lead in a 4-2 defeat by The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The results have left the Black Stars facing an uphill task to revive their qualification campaign and secure a place at the 2027 tournament.

Panwum says the national team belongs to the people of Ghana and called for those responsible for its management to be held accountable.

“The Black Stars belong to the Ghanaian people. They are not the property of the GFA, the government, a political party or any individual,” Panwum told Graphic Sports.

“Ghana football deserves better. The Black Stars deserve better, and the Ghanaian football supporter deserves accountability,” he added.

The disappointing start to the qualifiers was followed by the departure of head coach Carlos Queiroz, who stepped down from his position after the two defeats.

A five-member committee has since been established to oversee the search for a new head coach, with its report expected to be submitted to the Sports Ministry on Friday, 9 October.

Ghana will return to action later in October with a double-header against Somalia at the Accra Sports Stadium as they look to get their qualification campaign back on track.

The four-time African champions are attempting to return to the continental showpiece after failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.