Mahama says Black Stars have redeemed themselves after World Cup qualification

Ghana President John Mahama has said the Black Stars have made amends for their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following their successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Last year, the Black Stars finished at the bottom of their AFCON qualifying group, missing out on the tournament scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026. It marked the first time in 20 years that Ghana failed to qualify for the continental competition, a result that was widely seen as a disappointment for the nation.

However, the team secured a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico after defeating Comoros 1-0 in their final qualifying match on Sunday night at the Accra Sports Stadium.

“Failing to qualify for the AFCON was heart-wrenching for all Ghanaians, as it was the first time in many decades. Ghana has always been a permanent fixture at the tournament, so it was quite painful. However, the boys have made up for it by qualifying for the World Cup,” Mahama told Sporty FM.

The President highlighted the significance of the team’s achievement, noting that qualification for the World Cup not only restores national pride but also presents an opportunity for Ghana to showcase its footballing talent on the global stage.

The draw for the 2026 World Cup is scheduled for December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C., where Ghana will learn their group opponents.