Former Youth and Sports Minister, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has expressed strong criticism of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) following the Black Stars’ inability to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The national team, finishing last in Group F with a disappointing three points, recorded three draws and three losses in their qualifying campaign. Vanderpuye, who served as Sports Minister in the past, blamed the GFA for mismanaging the country’s football affairs and asserted that he would have dissolved the association if he were in office. Aware that such a drastic move could invite a FIFA ban, he argued that the period of suspension would offer Ghana an opportunity to rebuild its football structures. He highlighted how the GFA often places blame on coaches by dismissing them but questioned why the association itself could not be held accountable for its failures.
Vanderpuye further criticized the current state of Ghanaian football, claiming it suffers from deep-seated issues of corruption and favoritism. He expressed dismay at allegations of biased officiating in the Ghana Premier League, where referees are reportedly assigned to favor specific teams. This, according to him, undermines the integrity of the league and contributes to the decline of local football. He emphasized that as a Sports Minister, he would not tolerate such unethical practices and would take radical steps to ensure fairness and professionalism. Vanderpuye also lamented the self-serving interests of some officials within the GFA, which, in his view, has had a ripple effect on the Black Stars’ declining performance. He described the situation as unacceptable, noting that Ghana's football system needs urgent reforms to restore its lost glory.
The Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON marks a historic low point, as it is the first time in 20 years that Ghana will miss out on the tournament. Vanderpuye pointed to the team’s dismal record, which includes only one win in nine competitive matches since the 2021 AFCON. The former minister argued that this performance reflects systemic issues that require decisive action. While acknowledging the potential risks of a FIFA ban, he maintained that Ghana must prioritize long-term development over short-term consequences. Vanderpuye's remarks come amid growing public discontent with the GFA’s leadership and calls for accountability. As the country grapples with this setback, the need for meaningful changes in football administration has become increasingly apparent to both fans and stakeholders.
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