PlayersKurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has expressed strong opinions regarding some players in Niger’s squad, stating that they are unfit to play at the level of his club.
This assertion follows the Black Stars’ 1-1 draw against Niger in their second match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers last month, which came on the heels of a disappointing loss to Angola.
Okraku voiced his frustrations during a team address on October 8, claiming that Niger’s performance was undeserving of the points they secured against Ghana.
“Four or five of the players in that [Niger] squad cannot play in my club. That is the truth. But Ghana played 1-1 against Niger,” he stated, emphasizing the need for greater intensity and commitment from his players.
He further lamented the lack of energy and passion displayed by the Black Stars, saying, “What did we see? We saw a Black Stars team without energy, without passion, and without the desire to play. It’s not possible like this.
“As the Black Stars prepare for their upcoming matches, they will face Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium on October 10 before heading to Libya for the return fixture on October 15.
Watch how Ghana Football Association President, Kurt ES Okraku spoke to the professional players representing the flag of Ghana in the ongoing AFCON and World Cup qualifiers below: