Bawumia rallies behind Black Stars ahead of World Cup opener

Former Vice-President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has wished Ghana's national football team success as the Black Stars begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Ghana face Panama in their opening Group D match in Toronto, Canada, on Wednesday.

In a message to the team, Dr Bawumia described football as a unifying force that brings Ghanaians together and connects people across the world.

"Football has always been a part of us as a nation. It has always united us, and it brings the world together," he said.

"As the Black Stars start their journey at the 2026 World Cup, I want to wish them the very best."

Dr Bawumia expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete on the global stage and encouraged the players to draw inspiration from past successes.

"Black Stars, you have done it before and you can do it again," he said.

"The nation is behind you, and I am also behind you. Go Black Stars and go for gold."

His message comes as Ghanaians at home and abroad rally behind the national team ahead of their first match of the tournament.

The Black Stars will be aiming to make a positive start against Panama as they seek to progress from the group stage.