By Kwame Bediako
For the past five years, Ghana football has faced a turbulent journey marked by stagnation and disillusionment. The decline in the fortunes of the sport has become a source of deep concern for fans, sports journalists, and stakeholders.
The senior national team, the Black Stars, has particularly struggled to leave a significant mark on major tournaments, leading to a growing sense of frustration among supporters who once revelled in the team’s past successes.
In a bid to voice their discontent and demand change, passionate football fans, journalists, and other stakeholders took to the streets of Accra in a demonstration dubbed “Save Ghana Football”.
This collective outcry drew attention to the pressing need for reforms within the footballing structure of the nation. Despite the bold efforts, the response from the football authorities has been disappointing, as it marks one year since a strategic petition was submitted to Parliament on February 14, 2024, calling for essential structural reforms to revive the sport.
The Black Stars’ performance in international tournaments has been particularly alarming. Their record since 2019 has been marred by failures, culminating in their shocking absence from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time since 2004. As they prepare to miss the upcoming 2025 AFCON in Morocco, the nation grapples with the reality of a team that has lost its competitive edge on the continental stage.
Once a powerhouse in African football, the Black Stars have seen their identity fade since their last notable achievement in 2017, when they reached the round of 16 in the AFCON. The subsequent tournaments have witnessed a disheartening trend of early exits, as the team has struggled to advance beyond the group stages. This alarming pattern raises questions about the future of the national team and its ability to inspire hope among its loyal supporters.
The plight of the national team is mirrored by the challenges facing local leagues, where issues of hooliganism have become a prominent concern. This troubling trend has not only tarnished the image of Ghanaian football but has also led to tragic incidents, including the loss of fans’ lives. The vibrant atmosphere that once characterised football matches has been overshadowed by fears of violence and insecurity, pushing devoted fans to reassess their safety while supporting their teams.
As the football community in Ghana grapples with these pressing issues, the overarching question remains: Will Ghana football ever regain its former glory? The shared hopes of fans and stakeholders hinge on the ability of the authorities to implement meaningful reforms that address the root causes of decline. Without decisive action, the beautiful game risks losing its place in the hearts of Ghanaians who have long cherished its spirit.
Despite the challenges, a sense of resilience persists among football lovers in Ghana. The passionate demonstrations and the call for change signify a collective determination to restore the pride and joy that football once brought to the nation. As stakeholders continue to advocate for reform, there is a glimmer of hope that the beloved sport can evolve and adapt, paving the way for a brighter future.
