The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is saddened to announce that midfielder Anthony Annan's mother passed away on Thursday night. Madam Sophia Sampson died in a hospital in Ghana after falling sick earlier in the day. Annan, who is part of the Black Stars squad playing at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, has decided not to go home until the end of the tournament. The GFA has reacted with sadness to the news of Madam Sophia Sampson's death. "The Ghana Football Association is deeply saddened to hear of the death of the mother of Anthony Annan, Madam Sophia Sampson," Ghana FA President Kwesi Nyantakyi said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Anthony, his family and relatives on this very sad day for us. "We have spoken with Anthony and his family in Ghana to offer our support at this difficult time. "As Anthony has decided not to leave the Nations Cup to go home, the GFA, the coaches, players and staff will continue to offer him our constant support."