Mahama sends government delegation to boost Black Stars ahead of Croatia showdown

Government show of support for World Cup campaign

A high-level Ghanaian government delegation led by Ambassador Victor Smith visited the Black Stars training camp on Thursday to rally behind the team ahead of Saturday's decisive World Cup Group L fixture against Croatia. The visit included Sports Minister Kofi Adams, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and businessman Ibrahim Mahama, delivering messages of encouragement from President John Dramani Mahama as Ghana seeks to secure advancement to the knockout stage.

Speaking to the squad, Sports Minister Adams emphasised the weight of national expectation. "Whenever you step onto the pitch, remember that all 35 million Ghanaians are behind you," he told players. "The entire nation believes in your abilities and is proud of what you have achieved so far." Ablakwa highlighted Ghana's impressive performances, particularly the goalless draw against England, which he said has restored national pride and silenced doubters about the team's World Cup credentials.

The Foreign Affairs Minister conveyed personal greetings from President Mahama, who he described as among the Black Stars' strongest supporters. "The President is closely following our progress and has promised a special reward when the players return home," Ablakwa revealed. He expressed confidence in Ghana's chances of progressing past Croatia, noting the team have already proven their ability to compete with world-class opposition.

Present at the meeting were Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Vice President Mark Addo, and Black Stars Management Committee Vice Chairman Stephen Appiah, alongside other key officials and supporters who joined in encouraging the squad ahead of the Philadelphia encounter.