Mahama Rallies Black Stars Ahead of World Cup Opener, Assures Nationwide Broadcast Access
President John Dramani Mahama has extended a message of support to Ghana’s senior national football team, the Black Stars, ahead of their opening match against Panama in Toronto, urging the players to represent the nation with pride and determination.
In an official statement issued on behalf of the President by Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the government expressed confidence in the team’s ability to make the nation proud on the global stage.
Addressing the players, President Mahama described Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance as a reflection of the country’s resilience and sporting excellence.
“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. This fifth World Cup appearance is a testament to the resilient spirit of our nation,” the statement said.
The President reminded the players that they carry the aspirations of millions of Ghanaians whenever they step onto the pitch.
“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.
Mahama also called on Ghanaians living in Canada and across North America to provide strong support from the stands, describing them as the team’s “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.
The President further announced that the government had secured official television broadcast rights for the tournament, ensuring that football fans across the country can follow every moment of the Black Stars’ campaign.
“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,” he said.
Encouraging the players to draw inspiration from future generations, Mahama urged them to compete for the nation and for young Ghanaians who dream of following in their footsteps.
“Play for the flag. Play for the children dreaming of greatness in your footsteps. The world is watching, and we are confident that the Black Star will shine brighter than ever before on this global stage,” the President said.
The message concluded with a rallying call: “Go Black Stars!”
The Black Stars begin their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto, with millions of Ghanaians expected to follow the match from home and abroad.
