Bibiani Gold Stars head coach, Frimpong Manso, has called for a change in priorities for the Black Stars, advising the team to abandon their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON and instead concentrate on securing a spot in the next World Cup.
Manso's comments follow Ghana's underwhelming performance in the AFCON qualifiers, where the Black Stars currently sit third in Group F after four matches. With five points separating them from Sudan in second place and seven points behind group leaders Angola, the path to AFCON qualification looks increasingly difficult.
"We should forget about AFCON and instead focus on World Cup qualification," Manso said in an interview with Akoma FM.
Reflecting on the current Black Stars squad, he added, "With this group, we should have easily qualified without any mathematical calculations. Our team has lacked the commitment to truly 'die for the nation.' Otto Addo should drop all players who are unwilling to play because, based on their current performances, our local players can outperform them."
Coach Manso's remarks highlight a growing sentiment that Ghana must prioritize building a dedicated and passionate squad if they hope to regain their international standing.
Ghana will return to action in November for the final two matches of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, where slim chances remain for qualification. However, with World Cup qualification looming, the team may need to rethink their long-term strategy.
