Black Stars: Kurt Okraku Has Committed an Extraordinary Colossal Failure to Our Football System – Atta Poku
Atta Poku Calls for Accountability After Black Stars' AFCON Failure
- Atta Poku slams Kurt Okraku for failing to lead the Black Stars to AFCON qualification
- Atta Poku demands an apology from Okraku and his resignation if he truly respects Ghanaians
- He urges the government and GFA to admit the collapse of the football system
Outspoken sports journalist Collins Atta Poku has launched a scathing critique against Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a first in two decades.
Ghana’s Black Stars failed to secure a spot in the continental tournament after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Angola in Luanda. With just three points from five qualifying matches, the team is set to face Niger in their final game today, November 17, 2024, in Accra.
Speaking on the Monday edition of Ghana ‘Se Se Sen’ Morning Show with Kwame Tanko on Lawson TV/Radio, Atta Poku described Kurt Okraku’s leadership as an ‘extraordinary colossal failure’ for Ghana football.
“If Kurt respects Ghanaians and fears God, he would have apologized by now and announced that he won’t seek a third term. We support leaders climbing good trees, but Kurt’s leadership has made the Black Stars’ tree rotten,” Atta Poku remarked.
He further urged Kurt and his executives to step down immediately, adding that the current state of Ghana’s football has led even GHALCA Chairman Kudjoe Fianoo to demand Kurt’s resignation.
He also criticized those in power who have remained silent despite the nation’s deep passion for football, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the greater good.
Reacting to Black Stars coach Otto Addo’s remarks in a post-match press conference urging Ghanaians to support the team for a 2026 World Cup qualification, Atta Poku fired back:
“We’ve experienced far more accomplished coaches than you, Otto Addo. Avram Grant, who once managed Chelsea, came to coach Ghana. Chris Hughton, with his Premier League experience, even faced Jürgen Klopp before taking charge of the Black Stars. Now, it’s up to the government to make a decisive move. The GFA must admit that the system has collapsed so we can collectively address and rebuild it,” Atta Poku stated.