Ibrahim Saanie Daara criticizes GFA leadership following Black Stars’ AFCON failure
19th November 2024
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director, Ibrahim Saanie Daara, has expressed his discontent with the GFA’s Executive Committee, accusing them of a lack of visible leadership in the wake of the Black Stars' failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In an interview with Joy News following Ghana's 2-1 defeat to Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium, Saanie Daara voiced frustration over the absence of a strong response from the GFA leadership.
He criticized the Executive Committee for remaining silent during the crisis and urged them to take responsibility for the team’s underperformance.
"The silence from the Executive Committee during these trying times is deafening. They must also take responsibility and step up their game," Saanie Daara stated.
The Black Stars had a disappointing qualification campaign, finishing bottom of Group F with just three points from six matches, scoring only three goals and conceding seven.
The poor results have sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the roles of head coach Otto Addo and the GFA in the team’s failure to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
While calling for accountability, Saanie Daara emphasized the importance of thoughtful and measured action rather than radical changes.
He cautioned that efforts to address the issues should not dismantle the progress that has been made in recent years.
"Radical changes might be necessary, but they must not destroy what has already been built. Fix what is broken, but don’t tear everything down," he urged.
Saanie Daara acknowledged the Black Stars’ past achievements, including their qualification for the 2022 World Cup, noting that the team has a foundation on which to build.
He stressed that with better planning and leadership, the national team can recover and return to competitive form.
The GFA's Executive Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to discuss the team's performance and determine the way forward, as the Black Stars prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.