‘We cannot beat any team if we don’t fix things’ – Sammy Kuffour warns on Black Stars decline

Former Ghana international Sammy Kuffour has sounded a strong warning over the current state of the Ghana national football team, raising concerns about the team’s mentality, tactical direction, and overall competitiveness on the international stage.

Kuffour, who was part of Ghana’s historic debut at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, did not hold back in his assessment, describing a team gripped by fear and uncertainty.

Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, the former defender stressed that unless urgent changes are made, the Black Stars risk losing their status as a formidable force in African football.

“It will get to a point we cannot win against any country if we don’t fix things,” he cautioned, pointing to a worrying decline in performance.

Ghana’s recent struggles have been particularly alarming, including a disappointing run in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where they failed to secure a single victory in a group featuring Angola, Niger, and Sudan—teams that Ghana would have been expected to overcome comfortably in previous years.

The situation has been compounded by underwhelming displays against emerging sides such as Chad, Mozambique, and Comoros, signaling a shift in the competitive balance and exposing weaknesses within the squad. For Kuffour, the issue goes beyond tactics and speaks directly to the players’ confidence and psychological readiness.

Highlighting the growing pressure, he remarked bluntly on the anxiety surrounding the team, suggesting that fear has crept into performances even before kickoff. His comments underline a deeper concern: a lack of belief and identity that has left the team vulnerable.

Amid these challenges, the Ghana Football Association has turned to experienced Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, who replaces Otto Addo as head coach. While the appointment has sparked debate among fans, Kuffour has called for unity and patience, urging supporters to rally behind the new manager as he seeks to rebuild the team.

Kuffour also questioned some recent tactical approaches, particularly the use of a three-man defensive system, which he believes has not suited the team’s strengths.

However, he emphasized that coaching alone will not solve the problem. Structural reforms, improved scouting networks, and better integration of dual-nationality players were highlighted as key areas needing attention.

With Ghana preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they have been drawn in a challenging group alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, the stakes could not be higher. Queiroz is expected to be officially unveiled in Accra this Thursday, marking the beginning of what many hope will be a new chapter for the Black Stars.

For now, Kuffour’s message is clear: without decisive action and collective effort, Ghana’s footballing pride risks fading further on the global stage.