Otto Addo was unfairly targeted after failing to qualify for the AFCON â?? Ibrahim Sannie Daara

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Ibrahim Sannie Daara has defended Black Stars coach Otto Addo, insisting the former Borussia Dortmund trainer was unfairly criticised after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Addo came under intense scrutiny following Ghana’s inability to reach the continental tournament for the first time in 21 years.

Many fans and pundits questioned his tactical approach, while Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams described him as “lucky” during the World Cup qualifiers.

Despite the criticism, Addo guided the Black Stars to an impressive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, winning seven of the eight matches he oversaw.

His turnaround has been hailed as vindication for the GFA’s decision to keep faith in him amid widespread calls for his dismissal.

"Throughout our qualifying history in Ghana's World Cup campaigns, we've not had such an impressive outing," Daara told Joy Sports.

"All credit to everyone involved, particularly the coach [Otto Addo], who has, in my opinion, been unfairly targeted.

"The level of scrutiny - even to the point where a reporter can confront him and say, ‘Look, you are not qualified to coach our country; you should leave’ - was difficult. And for him to have turned it around, massive congratulations to him."

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