Ghanaian footballer Majeed Ashimeru took to Twitter to express gratitude to fans after achieving “a childhood dream” by making his Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) debut for the Black Stars, despite the team’s disappointing performance.
The midfielder started all three of Ghana’s group stage matches under coach Chris Hughton, but was substituted each time due to injury concerns. He helped the team earn 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique, but could not prevent a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde.
In a string of tweets after Ghana’s final group match, Ashimeru wrote: “Representing Ghana is a childhood dream that motivates me to give my best. I’m committed to bringing joy to our fans and elevating Ghana’s standing in the world. The Black Stars deserve better, and we’re determined to correct our course.”
The 26-year-old midfielder started Ghana’s opening group match against Cape Verdeand could have earned his international account with a brilliant goal, which was disallowed after a VAR review deemed a teammate to be offside in the build-up.
The controversial decision proved costly, as Ghana went on to lose the match 2-1.
However the former WAFA youngster went on to thank fans for their unwavering support, saying: “A heartfelt thank you to YOU, our incredible fans, for standing by us with unwavering support and prayers. May God bless and protect each one of us.”
The two draws and the loss to Cape Verde meant Ghana finished third in Group B, crashing out in the group stages.
The disappointing performance saw coach Chris Hughton sacked by the Ghana Football Association just 24 hours after the team’s exit. He had faced enormous pressure following the early AFCON exit, Ghana’s worst performance in recent memory.
For Ashimeru, it was a bittersweet experience making his Ghana debut under Hughton at the tournament. The RSC Anderlecht player will be hoping for better fortunes next time round as the Black Stars look to rebuild under a new coach.
