By Jeremiah Nutsugah
In a surprising turn of events during AFCON 2023, Ghanaians were taken by surprise by the unexpected 2-1 loss to Cape Verde in the Group B match.
This defeat has stirred a range of emotions and frustrations among some Ghanaians, prompting us to reach out to Ghanaians for their reactions and perspectives.
Talking to Alfred Opare, popularly known as Mayor in Paraku Estate, Accra, and a supporter of the Black Stars, expressed his disbelief at the outcome. “I never saw this coming. Although I didn’t have much trust in this current Black Stars team, losing the first match is something I never expected. We can’t qualify from the group stage because we are poor in all aspects of the game.”
Larry from Lapaz, an ardent football lover, shared his frustration, stating, “I was at a local viewing center, and the mood was very positive before the match. We shouldn’t have lost against Cape Verde. The players are a disgrace to the nation, and it’s embarrassing. Losing to Cape Verde is very embarrassing, and they should bow their heads in shame. I’m behind the team, but I know they can’t go anywhere.”
A guy known as Rasta at Lapaz pointed out, “Our defense looked vulnerable, and Cape Verde capitalized on that. We need to tighten up at the back. Coach Hughton has work to do. You can’t be this vulnerable and play against Egypt. The truth is, we won’t qualify, and Ghanaians should not expect anything more than not qualifying from the group because we won’t qualify. Let’s see how the team adjusts in the coming matches.”
Selasie, a student and passionate football fan, voiced his disappointment, “I watched the game with friends, and it was tough to see our team struggle. We had high expectations. Now, it’s about rallying behind the players. They need our support more than ever.”
Kwesi emphasized that Salisu needs to step up his game because he was the weak link. Pouring out his anger, he said, “If they don’t qualify from the group stage, then they should not come back to Ghana. A team that they are using our taxpayers’ money for; look at how they are disgracing us. I feel shy to watch this team, and we don’t play like a team.”
“We’ve faced setbacks before, and we’ve come back stronger.
This loss has placed Ghana at the bottom of the group with zero points. Ghana faces Egypt next on Thursday, January 18, 2024.
