Captain of the Black Stars, Andre Dede Ayew, has issued a formal apology for Ghana’s disappointing performance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), acknowledging that the team fell short of expectations.
In a video message, the Le Havre player expressed regret for the team’s early exit from the tournament, stating, “These past days have been very difficult for every Ghanaian football fan and myself.
I would like to apologize for the results at the AFCON that we just exited; we know that we should have done better.”
Taking full responsibility as the squad captain, Dede Ayew admitted that the team’s showing, marked by a winless campaign with a loss to Cape Verde and draws against Egypt and Mozambique, did not meet the nation’s expectations.
“In football, these are things that happen; it makes you stronger. What doesn’t kill you always makes you a stronger person, individually and collectively. We are Ghana and never going to give up… we shall rise and shine again as a family,” he emphasized.
Dede Ayew, who made an appearance in the final group game against Mozambique, acknowledged setbacks as a norm in football but emphasized that they should serve as a stepping stone to better performances in the future.
He concluded his apology by addressing the sentiments of disappointed fans, stating, “We understand the anger, backlash, everything that came to us; we take it, and we will make sure that we put our flag back where it belongs.”
The national team’s failure to progress beyond the group stage led to widespread disappointment among fans, prompting key squad members, including Dede Ayew, to publicly express remorse and commitment to a stronger comeback.