GFA President Urges Black Stars to Deliver Their Best in Crucial AFCON Qualifier Against Sudan
The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has issued a passionate call to the Black Stars players to give their utmost best as they face Sudan in a crucial 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
During a meeting with the players ahead of the match, Okraku emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, describing it as a must-win for the Black Stars if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive. He made it clear that players who fail to deliver strong performances risk being dropped from future call-ups.
Kurt Okraku is the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA)
Key Remarks from Kurt Okraku
Here are five key points Okraku addressed during his meeting with the Black Stars players:
1. Commitment to the Team
Okraku stressed the importance of loyalty and dedication to the national team. He made it clear that only players who are fully committed to the Black Stars have a place on the team. He warned that any player who fails to show this level of commitment will be excluded.
“It is either you are with this family, or you are out. I swear by my life, if you are out of this family, Ghana will never be represented by ten men, never.”
2. Risk of Losing Selection
The GFA President also reiterated his discussion with the head coach, emphasizing that players who lack passion and desire will not be selected. He set high expectations for the team’s performance.
“The minimum I expect is a team of men who show passion and desire to play. I told the coach, it is either you decide to play for Ghana, or you will not be selected.”
3. Lack of Passion in Previous Matches
Okraku expressed disappointment with the team’s recent performances, particularly in the 1-1 draw against Niger. He criticized certain players for showing a lack of energy, passion, and determination, suggesting that several players on the pitch didn’t have the ability to play at the level required for Ghana’s national team.
“Four or five of the players in that squad can’t play in my club. But Ghana played 1-1 against Niger. What did we see? A Black Stars team without energy, passion, and desire.”
4. Team Spirit and Unity
In his address, Okraku appealed to the players to reflect on their identity as Ghanaians and to embrace the indomitable spirit of the Black Stars. He urged them to come together with a shared vision and determination to succeed for the country.
“I hope this will be the last day I will have to appeal before all of you. Not only to appeal to your hearts but to your conscience about who we are and the fact that we are Ghanaians. The indomitable spirit of the Black Stars can only be resurrected by men with one vision, focus, and love for the nation.”
5. No Player is Untouchable
Okraku reminded the players that the Black Stars are a prestigious and historic team that existed long before their arrival. He highlighted the importance of humility and dedication, noting that no player is above the team.
“When Kudus, you were not born; this team existed. When Alex [Djiku], you were not born; this team called the Black Stars existed. It is important for us to remember we belong to a privileged group.”
Crucial AFCON Qualifier
Ghana’s next challenge is a doubleheader against Sudan, with the first leg scheduled for October 10, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium. This match is pivotal for Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON after failing to secure a victory in their first two qualifying matches.
Currently, Ghana sits in third place in Group F with just one point from two games. Angola leads the group with six points, followed by Sudan with three points, while Niger is tied with Ghana at the bottom with one point. This leaves the Black Stars with no room for error as they need a win to bolster their chances of qualifying.
The Road to AFCON 2025
The Black Stars have faced criticism from fans and analysts after a slow start in the qualifiers. Following disappointing results in their first two games, the pressure is mounting on the team to turn things around in their upcoming fixtures.
A win against Sudan would be a major boost to the team’s chances of qualifying for AFCON 2025, which will be hosted in Morocco. Ghana has a rich history in the AFCON, having won the tournament four times, with their most recent triumph coming in 1982. However, recent tournaments have seen the team struggle to replicate their past successes, and the Black Stars are eager to return to their former glory.
Kurt Okraku speaking with the Black Stars Team
Okraku’s Final Word
Kurt Okraku’s words were intended to inspire the players and remind them of the weight of responsibility that comes with representing the nation. As Ghana approaches the crucial Sudan fixture, the Black Stars must rise to the occasion, delivering the passion, energy, and commitment expected of them. The nation is watching, and the team has the opportunity to make a strong statement as they fight for a place in AFCON 2025.
All eyes will be on the Accra Sports Stadium on October 10, as the Black Stars take to the field in what is set to be a defining moment in their journey toward AFCON qualification.
By GhanaNewsPage 
