President John Dramani Mahama has rallied national support behind the senior national football team, the Black Stars, ahead of their opening match against Panama in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto, Canada.
In an official statement issued by the Presidency Communications Office on Tuesday, June 17, President Mahama described Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance as a reflection of the nation’s resilience, unity, and enduring passion for football.
Addressing the players directly, the President urged the Black Stars to recognize the significance of the moment and the weight of expectation carried by millions of Ghanaians both at home and abroad.
“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 statement said.
According to President Mahama, the team is carrying far more than football ambitions onto the global stage.
“You carry more than a ball. You are carrying the hopes, dreams, and heritage of a people. From the streets of Chorkor to the plains of Bole, every Ghanaian heart beats in sync with yours,” he stated.
The President charged the players to “play for the flag” and inspire the next generation of young footballers across the country who dream of emulating their success.
He also called on Ghanaians living in Canada and across North America to strongly support the team during the tournament, urging the diaspora community to become the “12th Man” for the Black Stars.
“To our vibrant diaspora in Toronto and across North America, we charge you to be the ‘12th Man’. 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,” the statement added.
President Mahama further disclosed that the government had secured official television broadcast rights for the World Cup tournament to ensure nationwide access for all citizens.
He noted that the arrangement would allow football fans across the country to follow every match live, regardless of their location.
“At home, the Government has ensured that no citizen is left behind. We have successfully secured official television broadcast rights, ensuring that every tackle and every goal is beamed into homes from Axim to Bawku, and from Ho to Hamile,” the statement emphasized.
Describing the initiative as a gift to a football-loving nation, President Mahama reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting national unity through sports.
“The world is watching, and we are confident that the Black Star will shine brighter than ever before on this global stage,” he declared.
The statement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP and Spokesperson to the President, who also serves as Minister for Government Communications.
Ghana will be hoping to begin its World Cup campaign on a strong note when the Black Stars take on Panama in what is expected to be a crucial opening fixture.
By 1960news.com
