Black Stars end AFCON Qualifiers in historic low without a win

For the first time in history, Ghana's Black Stars have completed an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign without securing a single victory, marking a dramatic low point for the four-time African champions.

The final blow came with a 2-1 defeat to Niger at the Ohene Gyan Stadium. Ousseni Badamassi put the visitors ahead in the 21st minute with a powerful header.

Substitute Jerry Afriyie briefly restored hope for Ghana by equalizing in the second half, but Oumar Sako delivered a crushing stoppage-time winner for Niger, leaving Ghanaian fans stunned.

Over the six matches of Group F, Ghana recorded three draws and three losses, finishing last with just three points.

Angola led the group with 14 points, while Sudan and Niger followed with eight and seven points, respectively.

The Black Stars struggled offensively and defensively throughout the qualifiers, scoring only three goals and conceding seven.

The team failed to keep a single clean sheet, a worrying trend that has left fans and pundits questioning their readiness for future competitions.

Despite the dismal campaign, head coach Otto Addo remains firm in his position, stating emphatically that resignation is not an option.

"I’m not the person who can resign," Addo remarked post-match, dismissing calls for his departure.

The Black Stars are set to regroup in March next year as they prepare to face Chad in matchday five of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Ghanaians will hope for a turnaround as the team seeks to restore its reputation on the international stage.