Former Black Stars assistant coach Ibrahim Tanko has called for patience with Black Stars head coach Otto Addo amid growing criticism following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Black Stars’ failure to beat Angola and Niger in their last two qualifiers means Ghana’s hopes of breaking their AFCON trophy drought continue to dwindle.

Ghana’s failure also marks the first time in 20 years that they will miss the AFCON. The last time they failed to qualify was in 2004 when the tournament was hosted in Tunisia.

In an interview with Flashscore, Tanko expressed his disappointment over the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 tournament.

“It is very bitter for us and also a big blow for Ghana football because this is the first time in over 20 years that we are not qualifying for the competition. It is not good for us, the former players, as well as the Ghana Football Association. We are definitely going to feel it,” he told FlashScore.

The failed qualification campaign has sparked heavy criticism from fans, with many calling for Otto Addo’s resignation. Despite his disappointment, the former Borussia Dortmund attacker has asked for more time for Otto Addo, arguing that bringing in a new coach just before the World Cup qualifiers would not be a wise decision.

“His return was always going to come with pressure. I don’t believe we should sack him; instead, we need to give him a chance. With the World Cup qualifiers coming up, should we really be bringing in a new coach? He just signed a new three-year contract – if you sack him, you’ll have to pay. Plus, there’s no guarantee that the next coach will make an immediate impact,” he added.

Ghana will resume their 2026 World Cup qualifiers on March 16, 2025, when they host Chad. The Black Stars currently sit in second place in Group I, having amassed nine points from their four games played.

FKA/BB