President John Dramani Mahama has called on all Ghanaians, both at home and abroad, to unite behind the Black Stars as the national team prepares to begin its FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto, Canada.
In an official statement issued by the Presidency on Tuesday June 17, 2026, the President expressed confidence in the team’s ability to make the nation proud on football’s biggest stage and urged citizens to throw their full support behind the players throughout the tournament.
Describing the Black Stars as ambassadors of Ghana’s resilience, determination and national pride, President Mahama said the team carries the hopes and aspirations of millions of Ghanaians as they embark on the country’s fifth appearance at the World Cup.
“Our gallant Black Stars, as you stand on the threshold of your first match against Panama in Toronto, the Government and the over thirty million people of Ghana stand firmly behind you,” the President stated.
According to him, the journey to the World Cup is a reflection of the fighting spirit that has long defined Ghanaian football and the nation’s ability to overcome challenges on the global stage.
He noted that the players are representing far more than themselves, stressing that every tackle, pass and goal will symbolize the dreams of Ghanaians from all walks of life.
“You carry more than a ball. You are carrying the hopes, dreams and heritage of a people,” the statement said.
President Mahama highlighted the emotional connection between the team and the nation, saying citizens across the country—from urban communities to rural towns and villages—would be rallying behind the Black Stars as they seek success in the tournament.
The President also directed a special message to members of Ghana’s diaspora community in Canada and across North America, encouraging them to create a vibrant atmosphere in the stands and serve as the team’s “12th Man.”
He urged supporters to proudly display Ghana’s colours and provide the energy needed to inspire the players during their opening fixture against Panama.
“Let the red, gold and green illuminate the stands, and let our drums remind our boys that wherever a Ghanaian stands, home is never far away,” he said.
Beyond the call for support, President Mahama announced that the Government had secured official television broadcast rights for the tournament, ensuring that Ghanaians across the country would have access to watch the Black Stars in action.
He said the decision was aimed at allowing every citizen to share in the World Cup experience regardless of location, describing it as a commitment to ensuring that no Ghanaian is left out of the nation’s football journey.
According to the President, fans from Axim in the Western Region to Bawku in the Upper East Region, and from Ho to Hamile, will be able to follow every moment of the team’s campaign.
As anticipation builds ahead of the opening match, President Mahama called on the players to compete with courage, patriotism and determination.
He urged them to play not only for victory but also for the countless young Ghanaians who dream of one day wearing the national colours on the world stage.
“Play for the flag. Play for the children dreaming of greatness in your footsteps,” he said.
The President concluded his message by expressing confidence that the Black Stars would rise to the occasion and showcase the talent, character and fighting spirit that have made Ghana one of Africa’s most respected football nations.
“The world is watching, and we are confident that the Black Star will shine brighter than ever before on this global stage,” he added.
The Black Stars open their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, with millions of Ghanaians expected to follow the match and rally behind the team as they seek a positive start to their tournament journey.
SOURCE: MAVIS FANTEVI
