2026 World Cup: NSA DG Ampofo Ankrah urges unity and optimism as Black Stars gear up for tournament
Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has appealed to Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars with positivity as the team intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana are set for their fifth appearance at football’s global showpiece and have been drawn in a demanding Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama—widely considered one of the toughest pools of the tournament.
His call comes in the aftermath of a 1-1 draw against Wales in a pre-tournament friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium, a match that formed part of the team’s build-up to the competition.
Speaking after the game, Ampofo Ankrah stressed the need for national support and encouragement for the squad.
“I think we should be positive and give the boys all the support we can give them [the Black Stars].”
The Black Stars will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. They will round off their group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
The four-time African champions are chasing a return to the knockout stage for the first time since their historic run in 2010, having exited at the group phase in both the 2014 and 2022 editions.