Chris Hughton Sacked as Ghana Head Coach Following AFCON Exit

Ghana‘s national football team, the Black Stars, have relieved Chris Hughton of his duties as head coach after the team’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The decision comes as Ghana failed to progress beyond the group stage of the tournament.

Hughton’s tenure with Ghana ended after the team managed only two points in Group B. They secured draws against Egypt and Mozambique but suffered a defeat in their opening match against Cape Verde.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) stated, “Chris Hughton has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the senior national team with immediate effect.” The GFA also announced the dissolution of the technical team of the Black Stars.

Ghana Football Association officials will soon outline their plans for the future direction of the national team.

Ghana’s hopes of advancing as one of the four best third-place teams were dashed following a 2-2 draw against Mozambique in their final group game.

Chris Hughton, who previously managed Newcastle United and Brighton, was appointed as Ghana head coach in February 2023. Despite topping their qualification group for AFCON, the team made a mixed start to the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches under Hughton.

Hughton acknowledged the disappointment of the team’s AFCON exit, stating, “Things are very raw right now. It’s an angry place at the moment, but when you are unable to see the game through, it becomes very difficult. Our performances have not been good.”