President John Dramani Mahama has shown his support for Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, by sharing an encouraging message before their first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama in Toronto.

The four-time African champions will start their Group L campaign at BMO Field on Tuesday, with kickoff at 23:00 GMT. They have the hopes and support of millions of Ghanaians at home and around the world.

In a statement from the Presidency Communications Directorate on June 17, President Mahama congratulated the team for reaching their fifth World Cup. He called this achievement a sign of Ghana’s resilience, unity, and strong football tradition.

He reminded the players how important it is to represent Ghana on the world stage, and stressed that they carry the hopes and dreams of over 30 million Ghanaians.

The President also recognized the strong support the team receives across Ghana and from Ghanaians living abroad, especially in North America. He urged fans in Toronto and nearby areas to come out in large numbers and be the team’s “12th man” during the tournament.

The statement also mentioned that the government is working to ensure people across Ghana can watch the World Cup by securing broadcasting rights. He concluded his message by urging the players to compete with discipline, determination, and pride, encouraging them to give their utmost for the nation and inspire future generations of Ghanaians.

“Go Black Stars,” the Presi“Go Black Stars,” the President said to end his message.rld Cup campaign against Panama before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 and Croatia on June 27, as the Black Stars seek to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.