Joseph Paintsil Sends Heartfelt Apology to Ghanaians After AFCON Disaster

• Ghana have been eliminated from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast
• The Black Stars failed to advance for the second straight time at the tournament
• Joseph Paintsil has sent an apology to Ghanaian fans following their elimination

Ghanaian fans are still in the doldrums following another heartbreaking group-stage exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Black Stars' elimination was confirmed on Tuesday evening, and their fans were livid.

Winger, Joseph Paintsil has joined Alexander Djiku in sending an apology to Ghanaians following yet another disastrous tournament.

Ghana exited the 2021 tournament at the group stage, and in the 2023 edition, they were stunned against Cape Verde and Mozambique.

The islanders beat them 2-1 in the opening game before they drew 2-2 with Egypt. They were cruising to victory against Mozambique, but two goals in stoppage time from the Southern Africans saw their lead disappear in the blink of an eye, per CAF.

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As the nation was still coming to grips with another dreadful tournament, coach Chris Hughton was also sacked. Meanwhile, Paintsil shared his apology via social media:

"Sincere apologies to the good people of Ghana. We are truly sorry for not meeting your expectations. Important lessons to take away from this unforgettable experience. Thank you for coming through with your support in our low moments."

Ghana defender apologises to fans

Sports Brief earlier reported on defender, Alexander Djiku apologising to Ghana fans following the Black Stars' elimination from AFCON 2023.

Despite an early exit for a second year running, the Fenerbache centre-back was one of Ghana's best players at the tournament in Cote d'Ivoire.

"Words will certainly not be enough to erase the disillusionment. We are disappointed and very sorry for our Ghanaian people that we have failed at this stage of the competition," he said on X.

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Ex-Ghana coach Chris Hughton says goodbye

Sports Brief also previously reported on Hughton saying farewell to the Black Stars players and staff following his dismissal after a disappointing Nations Cup campaign.

He was spotted in the hotel chatting with Ghana staff and players as they exited, having failed to live up to the expectations of righting the wrongs of AFCON in 2021.