Former Black Stars striker Majeed Waris has voiced his disappointment over Ghana's inability to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He described the situation as a "big shame" for a country with such a strong footballing heritage. For the first time in two decades, Ghana will not feature in Africa’s premier football tournament, an outcome that has left many fans and stakeholders questioning the state of the national team. Ghana’s qualification campaign ended disastrously, with the team finishing last in Group F. Despite playing six matches, they managed only three draws and suffered three defeats, earning just three points. This poor performance has triggered widespread criticism, with many calling for significant changes to the technical team, currently led by Otto Addo.

In an interview with Joy Sports, Waris, who previously played a critical role for the Black Stars, expressed sorrow at the team’s performance and its broader implications. He highlighted how crucial AFCON qualification is, not only for the players but also for the nation’s pride and morale. According to Waris, the absence will be felt more profoundly when the tournament begins, as other nations bask in the celebratory atmosphere while Ghana remains on the sidelines. “It’s painful now, but the true impact will hit when the festivities begin, and we’re merely spectators,” he said. Waris emphasized the need for immediate action to rebuild the team and ensure Ghana’s participation in the next edition. His comments reflect the sentiments of many Ghanaians who believe the team needs structural reforms to regain its competitive edge.

The 2025 AFCON, scheduled to be held in Morocco, will proceed without one of Africa’s historically strong teams. Fans and pundits alike are urging the Ghana Football Association to reassess the team's management and technical approach. While disappointment looms large, Waris insists that lessons must be learned from this failure to avoid future setbacks. The Black Stars' consistent decline in recent years has become a pressing concern, prompting calls for a complete overhaul of the team’s strategy and leadership. For now, Ghanaian football enthusiasts can only hope that this setback serves as a wake-up call, leading to the necessary changes that will restore the nation's footballing glory.