2026 World Cup: Government delegation rallies behind Black Stars ahead of decisive Croatia clash

A high-powered government delegation on Thursday paid a morale-boosting visit to the Black Stars camp in Rhode Island as Ghana intensifies preparations for its decisive final Group L match against Croatia at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The delegation was led by Ghana's Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, and included Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama.

🙌🏾 A significant show of support at the Black Stars camp as a distinguished delegation paid a visit to reinforce national unity behind the team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 🏆



The team was honored to welcome Sports & Recreation minister Hon. Kofi Adams, foreign affairs minister… pic.twitter.com/QcfPZB3f41

— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 25, 2026

The officials met with players and members of the technical team ahead of Saturday's crucial encounter, with the Black Stars aware that victory against Croatia would guarantee a place in the Round of 32 for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Addressing the squad, Sports Minister Kofi Adams commended the players for their impressive performances so far and urged them to continue carrying the hopes and aspirations of Ghanaians onto the pitch.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa also praised the team for restoring national pride through their disciplined performances, particularly the hard-fought goalless draw against England.

According to Ablakwa, the Black Stars have regained the trust and confidence of Ghanaians through their spirited displays at the tournament.

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— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 25, 2026

He further delivered a message from President John Dramani Mahama, describing the President as the team's "number one fan" and assuring the players of the unwavering support of both the government and the Ghanaian people.

Ablakwa also revealed that President Mahama has earmarked a special reward package for the squad upon their return from the tournament and expressed confidence that Ghana would overcome Croatia and make a deep run in the competition.

The visit highlighted the government's continued commitment to supporting the national team as Ghana seeks to prolong its stay at the Mundial.

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— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 25, 2026

Also present at the meeting were Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Vice President Mark Addo, Executive Council member and Black Stars Management Committee Chairman Dr Randy Abbey, former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Management Committee, as well as committee members Moses Armah and Samuel Aboabire.

Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama before holding England to a goalless draw in their second Group L fixture.

The Black Stars currently sit on four points after two matches, level with England at the top of the standings heading into the final round of group games.