Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has charged the Black Stars to show courage and unity as they begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama on Wednesday.

Addressing players and officials during a visit to the team hotel in Toronto on Tuesday, the Vice President conveyed the goodwill of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama and assured the team of the nation’s full support.

“The entire nation is behind you,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang told the players. “You carry the hopes of 30 million Ghanaians. Go out there and make Ghana proud.”

The Vice President urged the squad, led by Captain Jordan Ayew and Coach Carlos Queiroz, to play with discipline and determination as they step onto the world stage at BMO Field.

“Ghanaians from all walks of life are united behind this team. We pray for your strength, your safety, and your success,” she said. “Tomorrow, when you walk onto that pitch, remember that you are not alone. You play for Mother Ghana.”

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang was joined by Chief Justice Baffoe Bonnie, Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada H.E. Prof. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, and Nana Otuo Siriboe II, who represented His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Ghana faces Panama at 7:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, June 17, in Group L of the FIFA World Cup 2026.