Ghanaian international striker Kwabena Owusu has pointed fingers at the leadership of the Black Stars, suggesting that the team’s ongoing struggles in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers are more of a leadership issue than a player problem.
The Ferencváros attacker’s remarks come in the wake of Ghana’s disappointing goalless draw against Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, October 10, 2024.
Owusu, who has previously featured for the Black Stars, took to social media to voice his concerns and share his thoughts on what he believes is holding the national team back. In his candid statement, he said, “I know people are frustrated and blame the players, but the truth must be told, the problem has to do with the leaders. With all due respect.”
Ghana’s underwhelming performance in the AFCON qualifiers has drawn heavy criticism from both fans and pundits, as the team has struggled to find form. With only two points from three games, the Black Stars sit third in Group F, having failed to secure a win.
Owusu’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among some sections of Ghanaians and former players who feel that the issues plaguing the Black Stars extend beyond the performances on the pitch. Although Owusu did not elaborate on the specific leadership failings, his remarks have added to the ongoing debate about the direction and management of the national team.
Many Ghanaians have expressed concerns about the leadership structure within the Ghana Football Association (GFA), as well as the technical direction of the Black Stars under head coach Otto Addo. While some believe that changes at the leadership level are necessary to revive the team’s fortunes, others argue that the players need to step up and deliver on the field.
As Ghana prepares for the return leg against Sudan in Tripoli, Libya, on Monday, October 14, the pressure mounts on both the players and the coaching staff to secure a victory and keep their AFCON 2025 qualification hopes alive.
