By Iddi Yire

Accra, March 20, GNA - President John Dramani Mahama has encouraged Ghanaians to back the senior national football team, the Black Stars, as they aim to secure victory in their upcoming World Cup qualifier match against Chad.

During his visit to the Black Stars at their training camp at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday evening, the President stated, "On behalf of all Ghanaians and as the leader of this nation, I have come to support you and boost your morale."

Ghanaians have been disheartened by our failure to qualify for the AFCON, yet despite qualifying previously for the AFCON, we were eliminated quite swiftly the last time around; thus, we remain hopeful and supportive of your efforts.

The President reiterated that Ghanaians still believe that the Black Stars could find its glory again and that it was dependent on players and the technical team and the management committee.

Sacrifice and strength are required," he emphasized. "We all enjoy watching you play for your respective teams, and we hope you will bring that same level of commitment to the national squad.

Participating with the national squad doesn't offer as much financial reward as competing for your separate clubs, yet the profound feeling of honor and love for country—that your nation has qualified for the World Cup—is truly priceless.

And so, before we begin the qualifiers, let's leave the AFCON disaster in the past and focus on what lies ahead.

He reiterated that in the World Cup qualifiers, the senior national football team was going to redeem itself.

"If we win this match and secure our qualification, Ghanaians will rally around the team with full support once more. I have faith in your abilities; each of you is a gifted player," stated President Mahama.

We will keep supporting you, not just through the World Cup but also afterward. We believe that building a robust team is essential, and the key to achieving this is allocating the necessary resources to enable more frequent collaboration among players so that they can play together effectively.

The President emphasized the importance of identifying young talents to become part of the senior national football team, allowing these newcomers to learn from experienced players and fostering the development of future soccer icons.

"I'll take some time off to watch the match myself. Despite my heart condition making me less than ideal for following football matches, I am determined to do so. People advise me to have something to eat before settling down. My wish is that you all perform well enough to make proud of taking the time to sit and watch," stated President Mahama.

He observed that all of Ghana would support the Black Stars, and he had no doubt they could succeed.

The President was joined by Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, who serves as the Minister of Youth and Recreation.

GNA

KOA