The Black Stars missed the tournament for the first time since 2004 after failing to qualify for AFCON 2025, but under-fire Ghana coach Otto Addo has made it clear he would not resign.
Addo discussed the difficulties his team encountered and defended his dedication to the team in the face of growing criticism following Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Niger in their last Group F game.
“I’m not the person who can resign. If I had done this, I’d never have become a player or even a coach,” he stated.
“If you know where I have come from as a person to arrive at this job you won’t even ask about resignation.
“People shouting and telling me to resign can’t affect me.”
“We started okay but conceded a goal from a set piece. We were aware because the last time we met, they scored from a corner. Surely, we have to defend these set pieces better,” he said. “It seems everything is going against us.”
Addo pointed up some positive aspects of the game despite the loss, especially the debutants’ efforts, which he felt justified their participation.
He asked supporters and the media to stop focusing on blame and instead show support for the players, who he claimed had given it their all.
“There are some positives, especially from players who hadn’t played before but did well today,” he said.
“The media has the power to control the narratives of games, not only the results. You have the power to lift somebody up,” he stated. “I really need you to leave the players alone because they gave us everything.”
“I would like to pray for peaceful elections. We have a peaceful country, so no matter the outcome, we pray for peace,” he said.
“Surely everyone is disappointed, and even if we had played a draw, it wouldn’t have changed anything. Yes, it would have improved the mood of the country and the energy levels of the players,” he added.
Addo noted the potential effect on morale even if he conceded that a draw against Niger would not have prevented Ghana’s elimination.
Fans and stakeholders began to wonder about the direction of the national team under Addo’s leadership after the loss concluded a terrible campaign for Ghana, which finished last in their group without a single victory.
Source: newsthemegh.com