CPP extends congratulatory message to Black Stars

Accra, Oct 9, GNA - The Convention People's Party (CPP) has urged the Government and the Ghana Football Association to create a better congenial environment and support to the Black Stars devoid of interference to ensure the building of a formidable squad for the World Cup competition in June.

The Party said that, "Against the backdrop of euphoria and excitement from the rare achievement of the Stars, we need to remind ourselves of the problems that still confront our football in terms of poor management, deplorable physical infrastructure and lack of incentives".

It added that the general problems must be addressed so that this monumental achievement would serve as a catalyst for the revival of the beautiful game Dr Nii Noi Dowuona, General Secretary of the CPP in a Press Release copied to the GNA Sports said theParty wish to extend its heart-felt congratulations to the Black Stars for their qualification to the 18th FIFA World Cup in Germany next year.

He said the CPP however appreciate the efforts made by government and other organisations for providing adequate support to the Black, which facilitated their qualification.

The statement said it is a matter of great achievement for the players in particular and the technical handlers since a couple of months ago many soccer enthusiasts were doubtful of the Black Stars' ability to qualify for the global soccer fiesta.

Dr Dowuona said it is very clear that the vital factors that clinched Ghana's ticket to the World Cup were sheer commitment by the present crop of players and a professional approach to team management by Coach Ratomir Dujkovic, which warded off interference from the GFA. The statement said skipper Stephen Appiah deserves special commendation for the display of a great sense of patriotism, discipline and commitment, which influenced the other players to adopt such positive attributes to ensure total victory.

Dr Dowuona said it is pertinent to note that the national teams of Togo and La Cote d'Ivoire, all neighbouring countries have also qualified for the World Cup and in the spirit of Pan Africanism, the CPP extends its warmest commendations to them.

The statement said the CPP pray that the Black Stars would lift high the flag of Ghana at the World Cup and together with the other African countries bring great respect to the continent.

In a related development, Samakan International, a sports company have also extended its congratulations to the Black Stars for winning their match convincingly against Cape Verde and wish to say 'Ayekoo' to the team.

John Kuku Dsane, President of the company in a release copied to the floor of the Trust Towers.