Former Black Stars striker, Prince Tagoe says Ghana's inability to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations really hurt but advised the right things should be done in order for the team to bounce back stronger in subsequent matches.
The four-time African champions failed to qualify for the AFCON after finishing at the bottom of Group F with just three points at the expense of Angola, Sudan and Niger.
This is the first Ghana will not be at the continent's biggest football competition since 2004 following their ill performance throughout the qualifying campaign having won none in six attempts.
Speaking on Sporty FM, Tagoe, who won 36 caps and netted 7 goals for the Black Stars, described the situation as a painful one but is very optimistic the team will bounce back stronger going forward if things are put in proper place.
“It is very sad because qualifying and playing at the AFCON is what every Ghanaian want and to an extent the entire country because, at every tournament, Ghana is always there so if it happens that Ghana is not there, it is sad but we have to prepare our mind and return stronger because we can do it."
“It is hurting because everyone will be watching their country play and Ghana is not there so it is very sad,” he added.
The Black Stars will regroup in March to face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
