The Government's project to ensure Ghana wins the 2019 Afcon has ended in futility as the Black Stars got eliminated by the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia on Monday.

Tunisia beat Ghana on penalties to set up an Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final with Madagascar, denying the Black Stars a whooping US$15000 bonus promised them by the Government.

The Akufo Addo-led administration had invested hugely in Ghana's participation in the tournament, beginning with an amount of US$23000 to each player as a part payment of a US$8000 appearance fee.

It also financed the trip of  hundreds of registered supporters to Egypt in total disregard of recommendations of the Government white paper on the 2014 World Cup Commission of Enquiry.

It had also refused to reveal the country's approved budget for the tournament, saying it is a "Government project"  to ensure the country ends its 37 years Afcon trophy draught.

Reports however indicates the government budgeted US$8 million for the Black Stars participation in the tournament that will rather yield US$4.5million to the ultimate winner.

Image result for nana addo meets Black Stars

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo had urged the Black Stars to win the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) to honour the nations 'Year of Return' slogan.

The Black Stars were on a quest to win their fifth trophy after drawing with Benjn and Cameroon and beating Guinea Bissau to stay top of Group F.

But in their round of 16 encounter with the Tunisians, Coach Kwesi Appiah's side lost in a 5-4 penalty shootouts to destroy the hugely-financed project, which could have been a campaign tool for the NPP in the 2020 election.

Tunisia goalkeeper Farouk Ben Mustapha was the hero, coming on for the shootout and saving Caleb Ekuban's penalty.

Mubarak Wakaso and Jordan Ayew had scored Ghana's first two kicks but Leeds striker Ekuban was the only player to fail with his kick in the shootout, with Ferjani Sassi scoring the winning kick.

Tunisia had been seconds away from winning in 90 minutes, but substitute Rami Bedoui headed into his own net in injury time, with his first touch.

They had led in Ismailia through Taha Yassine Khenissi's goal from Wajdi Kechrida's cross.

Tunisia, who last won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004, now face surprise package Madagascar, ranked 108th in the world, on Thursday.

The elimination of the Black Stars means the four times African Champions will have to fight again to qualify for the 2021 Afcon to begin a search for another trophy in 39 years.