Following the Black Starlets’ failure to advance to the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Laryea Kingston has resigned as head coach of the Ghanaian U-17 national team.

Following a depressing 2-1 loss to Burkina Faso in the WAFU B Championship semifinals, this announcement was made.

Former Black Stars midfielder Kingston took over the Black Starlets in an attempt to turn around the team’s performance and return it to continental dominance. The Black Starlets had a strong start to the group stage, winning games against Ivory Coast and Benin, but they crumbled when it counted most.

The team’s defensive shortcomings were exposed in the semifinal match against Burkina Faso, as two crucial mistakes allowed the opposition to score goals.

After falling behind early, Kingston’s team was able to tie the game, but another defensive miscue allowed Burkina Faso to advance to the championship game, eliminating Ghana from the U-17 AFCON for the third time in a row.

In a statement, Kingston acknowledged his disappointment and thanked for the chance to lead the team “It has been an honor to lead the Black Starlets, and I am proud of the effort the boys put in throughout the competition. However, I believe it is time for me to step aside and allow someone else to take over and hopefully achieve the success that has eluded us” Kingston stated.

Coach Laryea Kingston’s U17 lads played 18 games, scored 54 and conceded 13.