Sam Johnson Reveals Complacency Threatens Black Stars’ Afcon Hopes

Former Ghana defender Sam Johnson affectionately called “Fooyoo” has raised urgent concerns about complacency within the Black Stars squad after a lackluster start to their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The team faced scrutiny following a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Angola and a 1-1 draw against Niger. Hopes of a turnaround were dashed in a doubleheader against Sudan, where the Black Stars failed to convert multiple chances, resulting in a goalless draw in Accra and a subsequent 2-0 loss in Libya.

In an interview on another platform, Sam Johnson criticized the national team selection process, questioning the criteria for player invitations. He pointed out that some players may be too comfortable in their positions due to a lack of competition from local talent.

“We need to ask ourselves what criteria we are using to select players,” Johnson remarked. “Some don’t feel any pressure because there’s no competition from local players. When there’s no threat to their positions, they become complacent. We must build a robust local side that gives national team players tough competition. When they know their positions are at risk, they’ll elevate their performance.”

Having previously played for Fenerbahçe and coached Accra Hearts of Oak, Johnson emphasized the necessity of strengthening local football to develop players who can challenge for national team spots.

Looking ahead, Ghana’s AFCON hopes rest on their upcoming qualifiers against Angola, who have already secured their spot, and bottom-placed Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium next month.

The Black Stars need to win both matches while hoping for favorable results from Sudan’s upcoming games to secure their place in the tournament.

Story by : George Opoku Boateng . #ahotor sports . Ahotor FM