Ghana sack coach Hughton after elimination from AFCON

Chris Hughton has been sacked as coach of the Black Stars of Ghana following the team’s group stage exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

Our correspondent reports that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced this on Tuesday shortly after the team’s elimination was confirmed.

“Chris Hughton has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the senior national team with immediate effect.

“The executive council has also taken a decision to dissolve the technical team of the Black Stars,” the GFA said.

The elimination was sealed after Cameroon defeated Gambia 3-2 to ensure that Ghana could no longer progress to the round of 16.

Cameroon’s win on Tuesday meant Ghana could not finish among the four best third-place teams from the six groups.

The Black Stars ended the group stage with just two points from draws with Mozambique and Egypt after an opening loss to eventual group winner Cape Verde.

“The Ghana Football Association will in the coming days provide a roadmap on the future direction of the Black Stars,” the GFA added.

Hughton, 65, won four of his 13 matches in charge of the Black Stars and has been under pressure even before the tournament.