Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (FA), has expressed the nation’s support for the Black Stars as they gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic.
Speaking to the players at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon on Friday, May 31, 2024, after their first training session, Okraku highlighted the crucial nature of the upcoming fixtures.
He conveyed his belief in the team’s potential to secure a strong performance in their critical match in Bamako, Mali’s capital.
“Each of you understands the significance of these matches. It is essential for us to regain our momentum. I have faith in you, the nation has faith in you, and all of Ghana stands behind you. It is crucial to remain focused on these two important games,” Okraku stated.
“I am confident we will head to Mali with our full strength and deliver a performance that will yield positive results. This is achievable.
“After Mali, we return to Kumasi and, with God’s help, conclude successfully against CAR. On behalf of the FA and all Ghanaians, I wish us the best. Let’s train diligently and prepare for Bamako,”
The Black Stars aim to bounce back after a mixed start in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers, recording one win and one loss in their first two games. They opened with a 1-0 win against Madagascar in Kumasi but then faced a 1-0 defeat to Comoros in Moroni.
The match against Mali is scheduled for Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Stade 26 Mars in Bamako, with a 19:00 kickoff. Following that, Ghana will compete against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Monday, June 10, 2024.
Currently fourth in Group I, the Black Stars are determined to win both games to enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
