2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Agyemang-Badu criticises Black Stars players for lack of passion after Sudan defeat

Former Udinese star Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has voiced his disappointment over the current state of Black Stars, particularly citing the players’ lack of passion and accountability.

The former Black Stars midfielder grew emotional as he criticized the team following their 2-0 defeat to Sudan on October 15, 2024, a loss that leaves Ghana on the brink of missing out on AFCON qualification for the first time since 2004.

Reflecting on their ongoing struggles, Agyemang-Badu noted that both the national team and the wider football ecosystem in Ghana face significant challenges.

Speaking on Onua Sports, he highlighted the Black Stars' poor run, with only two wins in their last 12 matches.

He questioned why players who excel at their clubs underperform when representing Ghana. "They do very well at their clubs, but the moment they get to Ghana, it turns into something else," he remarked.

Agyemang-Badu also pointed out the defensive errors that led to Sudan's goals, stating the need for the players to develop stronger character and passion for the game.

"You don’t have a team, you don’t have character, you don’t have passion, you don’t have anything," he stated, urging both players and management to take responsibility.

Ghana now needs to secure wins against already-qualified Angola and Niger, while hoping that Sudan falters against these same opponents, to keep their chances alive for next year’s tournament in Morocco.