Ghana captain Gideon Mensah has taken responsibility for the Black Stars’ 4-2 defeat to The Gambia, admitting that Tuesday was a day when nothing worked for the team.

Mensah, who captained Ghana in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium, also acknowledged the challenges facing a squad that has been heavily affected by player withdrawals.

“Today was one of those days when nothing worked for us. As captain, I also take responsibility for the defeat,” Mensah said.

The left-back endured a difficult evening, conceding the penalty that helped The Gambia launch their comeback before also giving the ball away in the build-up to the third goal.

Ghana had taken a two-goal lead but failed to maintain control of the game as The Gambia fought back to secure a 4-2 victory.

Mensah, however, urged the public to recognise the circumstances surrounding the current squad, particularly the number of new players who have been brought into the team following several withdrawals.

“We can’t hide from the fact that there are so many new players in the team, and being a new player means mentality and a lot of things. These are things that don’t come overnight. It takes time for new players to get these things,” he said.

The Ghana captain also praised the players who accepted their call-ups and made themselves available despite the difficult circumstances surrounding the squad.

“We need to appreciate the players for not hiding and coming out to represent the nation after the withdrawals,” Mensah added.

The defeat leaves Ghana without a point from their opening two Group C qualifiers after also losing 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké.