4 days ago
Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged the Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, to focus on securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Addressing the team at the Accra Sports Stadium, Mahama highlighted the importance of national representation on the global stage, encouraging the players to give their best effort. He acknowledged that playing for the national team may not be as financially rewarding as club football but emphasized that the pride of representing Ghana at the World Cup is invaluable. He further stressed the need for discipline, teamwork, and determination, as these qualities would not only help them succeed in football but also in life. Mahama’s visit was met with gratitude from the players, coaching staff, and officials, who appreciated his encouragement ahead of their crucial qualification matches.
Ghana is set to play Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on March 21, followed by an away match against Madagascar in Morocco on March 24. These fixtures are part of the World Cup qualification rounds, and the Black Stars are under pressure to perform, especially after their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) – a first in two decades. The team is determined to redeem itself and bring back the trust of Ghanaians by making it to the prestigious tournament. Mahama’s visit served as a morale booster, reminding the players of their responsibility to the nation and the need to make history by returning to the global football stage. The former president also assured the team that despite their recent setbacks, Ghanaians still support them and expect them to make the country proud.
Beyond the upcoming matches, Mahama’s message underscored the broader significance of sports in national pride and unity. He pointed out that while football is a career for many of the players, representing Ghana in international competitions holds a deeper meaning. The Black Stars’ participation in past World Cups has been a source of joy and inspiration for Ghanaians, and Mahama believes that this generation of players has the ability to achieve similar success. He urged them to stay focused, work hard, and put the nation’s interest above individual ambitions. His speech resonated with both fans and football stakeholders, highlighting the collective desire to see Ghana return to the World Cup. With the crucial qualification matches ahead, the Black Stars have a golden opportunity to prove themselves and secure a place among the world’s top footballing nations.
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