2026 World Cup: Vice President rallies Black Stars ahead of opener against Panama
Vice President H.E. Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged the Black Stars to display courage, unity and determination as they prepare to begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama on Wednesday.
The Vice President delivered the message during a visit to the team's hotel in Toronto on Tuesday, where she conveyed the support and goodwill of President John Dramani Mahama and the entire nation ahead of Ghana's opening Group L fixture at BMO Field.
Addressing the players and technical staff, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reminded the squad of the responsibility they carry as representatives of the country on football's biggest stage.
“The entire nation is behind you,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang told the players. “You carry the hopes of 30 million Ghanaians. Go out there and make Ghana proud.”
She encouraged the team, led by captain Jordan Ayew and head coach Carlos Queiroz, to remain disciplined and focused as they seek a positive start to their World Cup journey.
“Ghanaians from all walks of life are united behind this team. We pray for your strength, your safety, and your success,” she said.
“Tomorrow, when you walk onto that pitch, remember that you are not alone. You play for Mother Ghana," Her Excellency added.
The Vice President was accompanied by a high-powered delegation that included Chief Justice Baffoe Bonnie, Ghana's High Commissioner to Canada, H.E. Professor Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, and Nana Otuo Siriboe II, who represented His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Ghana's opening match against Panama has generated significant excitement among supporters, with the four-time African champions aiming to make a strong start to their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance.
The Black Stars will continue their Group L campaign against England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before facing Croatia in their final group match on June 27.
Having reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Ghana will be hoping to advance beyond the group stage and make another memorable run in the tournament.