President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Black Stars to play with pride and determination as Ghana prepares to face Panama in its opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto on Wednesday.
In a message to the team on June 17, President Mahama said the government and millions of Ghanaians were firmly behind the players as they begin the country’s fifth World Cup campaign.
“This fifth World Cup appearance is a testament to the resilient spirit of our nation,” he said.
President Mahama reminded the players that they carry the hopes of the nation and called on them to represent Ghana with distinction.
“You carry more than a ball. You are carrying the hopes, dreams, and heritage of a people,” he said.
President Mahama also urged Ghanaians in Toronto and across North America to serve as the team’s “12th Man” by creating a strong support base in the stands. He noted that the government had secured television broadcast rights to ensure Ghanaians across the country can follow every match of the tournament.
“Play for the flag. Play for the children dreaming of greatness in your footsteps,” he added.
The message comes as Ghana prepares to begin its campaign without deputy captain Thomas Partey, who was denied entry into Canada after his visa application was refused by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Thomas Partey sought emergency relief at the Canadian Federal Court to overturn the decision, but his application was dismissed, ruling him out of Ghana’s opening game against Panama. Despite the setback, the Black Stars will be aiming for a strong start to their Group L campaign.
“The world is watching, and we are confident that the Black Star will shine brighter than ever before on this global stage,” Mahama said.
