Ghanaian forward Osman Bukari has issued a heartfelt apology for his role in the Black Stars’ elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The four-time AFCON champions faced an early exit from the tournament for the second consecutive time, managing only two points in three group games.
Bukari, who featured in two matches under coach Chris Hughton, particularly remembers his second appearance. A mistake during the game against Egypt, where he lost possession, contributed to the opposing team’s equalizer in a 2-2 draw.
Reflecting on his first AFCON campaign, the Red Star Belgrade player took to social media to convey his regret and apologize to the Ghanaian fans. “It has taken me quite a number of days to gather the words to address you our dear fans, because of the embarrassment we brought on the nation & the fact that we let you down and our inability to advance to the next stage has hit heavily on me, for I contributed a part in it,” he wrote.
“I would like to render an unqualified apology for the mistakes and assure you that we will come back better and stronger for the team and the country. I hope and ask that you forgive us. We live to fight someday. Thank y’all for the encouragement, love and support!!”
Following Ghana’s premature exit, coach Chris Hughton has been dismissed by the Ghana Football Association, and a committee has been established to find a suitable replacement.