Ghana have cancelled their proposed international friendly against Morocco after a difficult start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The Black Stars were due to face Morocco in Tangier on 4 October during the October international window.
However, following their 2-0 defeat by Ivory Coast in their opening Group C qualifier, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) wrote to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation to withdraw from the fixture.
The decision was taken before Ghana’s second qualifier against The Gambia, in which the Black Stars surrendered a two-goal lead before losing 4-2 at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday.
Adomonline.com details why the GFA withdrew from the game:
Why did Ghana withdraw?
The GFA said the withdrawal was partly influenced by the number of players unavailable for the squad.
Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Mohammed Kudus and Nathaniel Adjei were among those who missed the international window, leaving the technical team concerned about its ability to field a competitive side.
The GFA also informed its Moroccan counterpart that it had outstanding winning bonuses owed to players and did not want to increase its financial obligations.
“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) wishes to inform the general public that the international friendly between Ghana and Morocco has been called off,” the association said.
“The decision was reached following consultations between both Federations. The GFA sincerely apologises to all stakeholders, fans and media partners for any inconvenience the cancellation may cause.
“The Association will in due course announce new arrangements for the Black Stars as part of preparations for the upcoming AFCON 2027 qualifiers.”
The cancellation means Ghana will play only two matches during the October international window, despite initially having the opportunity to play as many as four.
The GFA had also previously raised concerns about fulfilling a proposed friendly against Tanzania.
Morocco forced to find replacement
Ghana’s decision reportedly disappointed the Moroccan Football Federation, which had already announced the fixture and put tickets on sale.
Morocco had been looking to use the game as an opportunity to test their squad ahead of their upcoming assignments.
Following Ghana’s withdrawal, Morocco have arranged a friendly against Mali on 4 October instead.
Queiroz leaves Black Stars
The cancellation came on the same day the GFA confirmed that it had mutually parted ways with head coach Carlos Queiroz.
The Portuguese coach was appointed to lead Ghana ahead of preparations for the 2026 Fifa World Cup and the 2027 Afcon qualifiers.
The GFA said the decision to end the relationship was taken in the “best interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football”.
“Both parties agreed that under the present circumstances, ending the professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action,” the association said.
The GFA thanked Queiroz and his technical staff for their commitment and said it would announce the next steps regarding the leadership of the national team in due course.
Queiroz also confirmed the termination of his contract, describing the discussions as having been conducted in a “spirit of mutual respect”.
“It has been an honour to serve Ghana and the Black Stars,” he said.
He also urged Ghanaians to continue supporting the players despite the team’s recent struggles.
“Believe in these players. Protect them. Support them,” Queiroz said.
“The talent and potential are there. With unity, support and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana.”
Queiroz leaves after seven matches in charge, with one win, two draws and four defeats.
Ghana bottom of Group C
The 4-2 defeat by The Gambia leaves Ghana bottom of Group C without a point after two matches.
The Black Stars are next scheduled to face Somalia in a double-header in November, with the matches providing their next opportunity to revive their qualifying campaign.
