Alhaji Raji Supports GFA President Kurt Okraku Despite Black Stars’ Struggles
Former GHALCA Chairman Alhaji Raji has expressed strong support for the leadership of Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku amid criticism of the Black Stars’ recent poor performances. Since taking office in 2019, Okraku has faced mixed results during his tenure. The Black Stars have struggled significantly, failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and experiencing early eliminations in the 2021 and 2023 editions of the tournament. Despite these setbacks, Alhaji Raji pointed out that Okraku’s administration has made strides in other aspects of Ghanaian football, especially in women’s football. Notably, the Black Queens recently secured their place in the 2024 Women’s AFCON in Morocco, a success that highlights the broader progress under Okraku's leadership.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Raji rejected the notion that Okraku’s tenure has been a failure. He argued that while the Black Stars’ disappointing performances have overshadowed other achievements, it is unfair to judge his administration solely on those results. Raji explained that football in Ghana has not declined under Okraku's stewardship and acknowledged improvements in governance, youth football development, and the promotion of women’s football. He stated, “Kurt Okraku’s administration has not been bad. The main issue lies with the Black Stars’ poor performance, but that doesn’t mean football has collapsed.” According to Raji, Okraku’s leadership has laid a foundation for future success, even if the senior men’s team has yet to deliver the desired results.
The challenges facing the Black Stars remain a significant point of concern. The team’s early group-stage exits in the last two AFCON tournaments and their poor performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar have drawn intense scrutiny. Critics have questioned Okraku’s ability to oversee a turnaround for the team. However, Alhaji Raji believes that the GFA president’s efforts in other areas deserve recognition. While calls for accountability persist, Raji’s defense of Okraku highlights the broader complexities of managing Ghanaian football, which requires balancing immediate success with long-term development. As debates about the direction of Ghana football continue, the successes in women’s football and youth development provide a silver lining in an otherwise challenging period for the country’s senior men’s team.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0