After the dismal performance of the Black Stars at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) , several players have taken responsibility and issued apologies for the disappointment caused. Ghana’s exit from the competition occurred at the group stage, with no wins, two draws, and a defeat.
The tournament started on a disappointing note with a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde. Despite bouncing back with a two-all draw against Egypt, their chances of advancing relied on a win in the final game against Mozambique. Ghana took a 2-0 lead for 90 minutes but shockingly conceded two goals in additional minutes, resulting in a draw.
With only two points in a group considered relatively easy, the team failed to progress to the round of 16. Currently, eight players out of the 27 named for the tournament have issued apologies for the team’s embarrassing performance in Ivory Coast.
Alexander Djiku
Djiku expressed his gratitude to the Ghanaians for their support and sticking with the team.
“Words will certainly not be enough to erase the disillusionment. We are disappointed and very sorry for our Ghanaian people that we have failed at this stage of the competition, but if you only knew how grateful we are to have been supported by you, our Ghanaian fans,” he wrote on Instagram.
Mohammed Salisu
The defender for AS Monaco, Mohammed Salisu, apologised for his fight with the Ghanaian media following the last game, saying that he was insulted and intimidated, but he also conceded that the team’s performance was nothing to write home about.
“It with a deepest regret that I am writing to you about our disappointing campaign in the 2023 AFCON,” he wrote on Instagram.
“As you all know we went with the intention of bringing the trophy home but it was rather unfortunate that we were eliminated from the tournament in the group stage. We gave absolutely everything but we were unable to secure the necessary wins to keep us in the tournament.”
“Aside all I feel so disappointed that I couldn’t help my country to regain its past glory. With full assurance, we promise to come back stronger in our next game for our beloved country.”
“My actions to the media was out of frustration. We went to the 2023 AFCON to win the trophy but things didn’t go as planned. Everyone will bear me to the fact that the last game was unacceptable so the fans have every right to criticize us but not to the extent of insult and threats. Nevertheless, I want to render an unqualified apology to whoever I offend. We never wanted this result. We will come stronger. Thank you for your tremendous support.”
Kudus Mohammed
West Ham United star Kudus Mohammed noted that the exit is a ‘hard reality’ and that the players take ‘full responsibility.’
“To the heart & soul of ???????? Ghana. In these difficult times where our only source of pride, joy & unity are our victories, we stand in solidarity with your disappointment. Falling short at my debut #AFCON23 is a hard reality we face together but as a playing body we take full responsibility. We deeply regret not meeting your hopes this time. Your enduring support is our motivation to strive in commitment to making you proud in the future,” he wrote on Instagram.
Gideon Mensah
In his apology, Gideon Mensah promised that the players will put in a lot of effort to bring back the excitement of the heyday.
“With a very heavy heart & deep thoughts after our unfortunate exit from the ongoing AFCON,. We set out on a high but disappointed our motherland and fans who’s diehard support we can never take for granted but one thing is for sure: we will keep working very hard until we bring back the Smiles & Joy,” he wrote on Instagram.
Joseph Paintsil
Joseph Painstil stated that the team have learnt important lessons and thanked the fans for the support during their low moments.
“Sincere apologies to the good people of Ghana. We are truly sorry for not meeting your expectations. Important lessons to take away from this unforgettable experience.”
“Thank you for coming through with your support in our low moments,” he wrote on Instagram.
Ernest Nuamah
Ernest Nuamah was disappointed to experience the unfortunate exit in his debut tournament
“From Asafo with high hopes & impacting dreams to a tough #AFCON23 debut lesson. This is not what we dreamt as warriors/war Chiefs (Ghana) of Africa. We are disappointed & ashamed as players but not defeated in our battles to honour what Ghana represents. Today we learn, and tomorrow we grow,” he wrote on Instagram.
Osman Bukari
The winger for Red Star Belgrade, Osman Bukari, expressed regret for his error that resulted in an equaliser during the match against Egypt, claiming that it prevented the squad from advancing to the round of 16.
“It has taken me quite a number of days to gather the words to address you our dear fans, because of the embarrassment we brought on the nation & the fact that we let you down and our inability to advance to the next stage has hit heavily on me, for I contributed a part in it.” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“I would like to render an unqualified apology for the mistakes and assure you that we will come back better and stronger for team and the country. I hope and ask that you forgive us. We live to fight someday. Thank y’all for the encouragement, love and support!!”
Majeed Ashemiru
Majeed Ashemiru declared that the nation deserved better and that the Black Stars will change history.
“Having the privilege to represent my country of birth (Ghana) has always been a childhood dream. This gives me extra motivation to fight till the end to make sure we bring joy to our fans and also to put our dear country, Ghana, where it belongs. Ghana’s Black stars deserves better and we shall rewrite our wrongs, Isha Allah. Thanks to all the amazing fans for their support and prayers. God bless and protect us all,” he wrote on Instagram.