Black Meteors were presented with proof of their qualification bonus cheques before consenting to participate in their final group game at the 2023 U-23 AFCON on June 30, 2023, according to sports journalist Atta Poku.
Ghana had defeated Mozambique and Algeria to secure their place in the tournament hosted by Morocco.
Atta Poku, who was present at the team’s camp in Morocco, stated that the players insisted on receiving their outstanding bonuses and even threatened to boycott the match against Guinea.
In response to the players’ demands, the management committee displayed evidence of the bonuses being paid, which ultimately persuaded the players to agree to play the game.
“They started asking for their money on Tuesday night after conceding 5. On Wednesday evening…they had a meeting with them for 45 minutes at the hotel.
“They had similar meetings three times before playing their game against Guinea. Barnieh and Danlad were there…,” he said on Sompa FM.
“Thursday before the game, they were demanding the bonus. Friday, they were still demanding in the dressing room.
“They(the management committee) showed them a screenshot of the cheque that it has been paid in Ghana and it will reflect before they played. So if you were wondering why they couldn’t play, this is it,” he added.
Ghana went on to share spoils with Guinea. The draw confirmed their exit from the tournament, finishing third in Group A with 4 points.
With a better goal difference, Guinea progressed alongside Morocco who topped the group with a 100 percent record.
The Black Meteors have now failed to end the country’s 20-year search for Olympic Games qualification.