By: Francis Ofori, GNA
Accra, Oct. 3, GNA – The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has called for urgent reforms to reverse the declining fortunes of Ghana football, particularly national teams.
The call followed the Black Stars’ recent disappointing results against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, which had deepened concerns over the state and future of Ghana football.
Ghana, after failing to qualify for the last Africa Cup of Nations, is once again staring at another absence following a string of heartbreaking qualifying results.
In a statement, SWAG described football as a national unifier and expressed concern over the poor performances of various national teams under the current Ghana Football Association (GFA) administration.
It said the senior national team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, the first time in 24 years, coupled with inconsistent performances by other national teams, reflected deeper structural challenges requiring immediate attention.
The body further noted that Ghana, once a formidable force on the African football landscape, had seen its influence diminish through disappointing tournament campaigns and early exits.
It called for a comprehensive review of the administration and management of the national teams, with appointments based on competence, proven track records and technical expertise.
SWAG urged the GFA to strengthen accountability and ensure merit-based, independent management of the national teams, free from political patronage.
“We urgently call for re-engineering the local leagues as the true incubator to restore the competitive hunger and technical soundness of our home-grown players and a guarantee of seamless transition from youth football straight into the elite national setup,” It said.
According to the Association, the state of Ghana football had reached a critical juncture where sentiment and tradition must give way to competence, strategic planning and accountability.
It charged the leadership of the GFA to take immediate steps to reverse the decline in the national teams or step aside.
It further proposed the establishment of an independent Public Interest Committee (PIC) to oversee the management of the national teams and help restore public confidence.
“The time for empty apologies, endless cycles of finger-pointing and presiding over national embarrassment is over,” SWAG said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade