World Cup 2026: Let's be positive and support Black Stars - NSA DG Yaw Ampofo Ankrah implores Ghanaians

Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has appealed to Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars as the team intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana, set for its fifth appearance at football’s global showpiece, has been placed in a demanding Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama—three opponents widely considered among the strongest in the tournament.

His comments come in the aftermath of Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Wales in a preparatory match at the Cardiff City Stadium, a result that forms part of the team’s build-up to the competition.

“I think we should be positive and give the boys all the support we can give them [the Black Stars]," Ampofo Ankrah said.

The Black Stars will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.

Ghana, four-time African champions, are targeting a return to the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, having suffered group-stage exits in both 2014 and 2022.