2026 World Cup: Black Stars will make Ghana and Africa proud, says Jordan Ayew ahead of Colombia showdown
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has promised that Ghana will give everything on the pitch when they face Colombia in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the team is determined to make both the nation and the African continent proud.
Ghana take on the South American side on Saturday at the Kansas City Stadium in a crucial knockout fixture, with a place in the last 16 at stake.
The Black Stars are now among Africa's remaining representatives in the competition after South Africa, Ivory Coast, DR Congo and Senegal were all eliminated in the opening knockout round.
Although a record nine African nations reached the knockout stage, Ghana now carries much of the continent's hopes of extending Africa's presence at the tournament.
Addressing reporters on Thursday, Ayew acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge ahead but stressed that knockout football is unpredictable, with every team beginning on equal terms regardless of their performances in the group stage.
"In football, every game you start is 50/50, and tomorrow is gonna be another tight game," Ayew said.
The experienced forward also assured Ghanaian supporters that the players would leave everything on the field in pursuit of qualification for the Round of 16.
"We are going to do our best, we are going to put on a show, and we will see what will happen. But what I can guarantee is that we will definitely make Africa and Ghana proud."
The Black Stars will be hoping to produce another memorable World Cup performance when they face Colombia, with kick-off scheduled for 01:30 GMT at the Kansas City Stadium.