George Afriyie
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President George Afriyie has challenged Kurt Okrakus evaluation of the Black Stars performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that reaching the Round of 32 should not be celebrated as a significant accomplishment for Ghana.
Ghana progressed from the group stage of the tournament for the first time since 2010 but were eliminated in the Round of 32 after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia.
Following the teams exit, GFA President Kurt Okraku described the campaign as one that exceeded expectations, insisting that securing a place in the knockout stage was an achievement for the country.
However, speaking on Adom TV,Afriyie expressed surprise at Okrakus comments, insisting that the Black Stars must be measured against higher standards.
I was shocked when I listened to the FA president [Kurt Okraku] saying we have done well, Afriyie said.
The former GFA presidential candidate questioned why Ghanas football leadership considers reaching the Round of 32 at the World Cup a major milestone, given the countrys history and pedigree in international football.
Why do we have an FA president [Kurt Okraku] who thinks that qualifying out of the group to the Round of 32 is an achievement? Im so shocked, he added.
Afriyie also criticised Okrakus readiness when he assumed leadership of the GFA, suggesting that the associations president needed more time to gain experience in football administration before taking charge.
He was a fresher. He needed to take his time to go through the ranks to learn. I think he thought that he had arrived, but he wasnt, he said.
The Black Stars World Cup campaign saw Ghana advance to the knockout stage for the first time in 16 years, but their elimination means the team will now turn attention to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Ghana has been drawn in Group C alongside Ivory Coast, The Gambia and Somalia, with the qualifying campaign scheduled to begin in September.
