World Cup 2026: 'Play for the flag, the children who dream of following in your footsteps' — Mahama charges Black Stars against Panama

President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Black Stars to play with pride and purpose as they prepare to open their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto.

In a statement issued by the Presidency Communications Office on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the President said the entire country stands firmly behind the national team as they make their fifth appearance at the global tournament.

The Black Stars will face Panama in their Group L opener on Wednesday evening at BMO Field in Toronto. The match marks the first senior international meeting between the two sides.

President Mahama urged the players to carry the hopes and aspirations of Ghanaians with them and to represent the nation with honour on the world stage.

“Play for the flag. Play for the children who dream of following in your footsteps,” he said.

He also encouraged Ghanaians living in Toronto and across North America to rally behind the team from the stands, urging them to act as the “12th man” by turning out in large numbers and wearing national colours to support the players throughout the tournament.

The President further noted that arrangements had been made to ensure Ghanaians at home can follow all Black Stars matches live on free-to-air television.

According to the statement, the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation secured the free-to-air terrestrial television rights for the tournament with government support, while a National Broadcast Consortium has also been established to extend coverage nationwide.

Mr Mahama expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver a strong performance and wished them success as they begin their World Cup journey.