Former Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien has called on Ghanaian football fans to move on following the national team's failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Ghana endured a disappointing qualification campaign, finishing bottom of their group with just three points from six matches, having recorded three defeats and three draws. As a result, the four-time African champions will miss the continental tournament for the first time in 20 years.
Speaking in an interview with *Sporty FM*, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star admitted he was surprised by Ghana’s failure but stressed that the team must focus on rebuilding.
“I would say I was surprised we didn’t make it to the AFCON, but there’s a whole lot going on with the Black Stars," Essien said.
“It is sad, but we have to move on. What has happened has happened, and sometimes it’s better not to qualify than to just add to the numbers. If you qualify, you have to compete.”
Ghana will return to action for the first time since their AFCON qualification disappointment when they host Chad in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday, March 21, before facing Madagascar on Monday, March 24.
