A high-powered Ghanaian government delegation led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, visited the Black Stars camp on Thursday to congratulate the team on its impressive FIFA World Cup campaign and deliver a special message from President John Dramani Mahama ahead of Saturday’s decisive Group L encounter against Croatia.
The delegation included Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama. The visit formed part of efforts to boost the morale of the players and technical team as they prepare for a crucial match that could secure Ghana’s place in the Round of 32.
Addressing the squad, Sports Minister Kofi Adams assured the players of the unwavering support of Ghanaians both at home and abroad.
“As I always tell you, whenever you step onto the pitch, remember that all 35 million Ghanaians are behind you and supporting every move you make,” he said. “The entire nation believes in your abilities and is proud of what you have achieved so far.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa praised the Black Stars for their spirited performances, particularly their goalless draw against England, which has strengthened belief in the team’s ability to compete with the world’s best.
According to him, the players have restored national pride and renewed confidence among football fans across the country.
“You have shown that no opponent, regardless of reputation or ranking, can intimidate Ghana,” he said. “The respect and admiration Ghanaians have always had for the Black Stars has returned, and we are confident that you can go very far in this tournament.”
Ablakwa also conveyed warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama, describing the President as one of the team’s biggest supporters.
He revealed that the President is closely following the team’s progress and has promised a special reward when the players return home after the tournament.
The minister expressed confidence that Ghana would overcome Croatia and advance to the knockout stage, adding that the team has already proven many doubters wrong with its performances.
He noted that the Black Stars have become ambassadors of Ghana on the global stage, earning admiration not only from Ghanaians but also from football fans across Africa and beyond.
Also present at the meeting were GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, GFA Vice President Mark Addo, Black Stars Management Committee Vice Chairman Stephen Appiah, Dr. Randy Abbey, Moses Armah, and Samuel Aboabire, who joined in encouraging the team ahead of the crucial showdown in Philadelphia.
