Black Stars defender Gideon Mensah has urged Ghana to quickly turn the page on their 2026 FIFA World Cup disappointment, insisting the team’s immediate focus is to redeem themselves in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Ghana’s World Cup campaign came to an end following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32, with Jhon Arias’ first-half strike proving decisive at Kansas City Stadium.
Reflecting on the defeat, Mensah admitted the result was painful but stressed that the Black Stars are determined to respond positively when they return to competitive action.
“The plan is to take every game that comes our way as a chance for us to redeem ourselves,” he said after the match.
“After this defeat, we have so many people that we have to make up to. First of all ourselves, our families, our nation and our African brothers as well.”
The left-back revealed that the players have already shifted their attention to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, where they hope to restore confidence by producing consistent performances and positive results.
“We will go back to our clubs and homes, prepare ourselves for the qualifiers and make sure we win every game that we can. Even if we are not winning, we have to put on a performance that shows everyone we are ready for whatever challenge comes our way,” he added.
Mensah also expressed heartfelt appreciation to Ghanaian supporters, acknowledging the sacrifices fans made by staying awake through difficult time zones to support the Black Stars throughout the tournament.
“We are very grateful to Ghanaians. They have been with us throughout this journey despite the difficult time difference. Many people sacrificed their sleep, not because they didn’t want to sleep, but because they love the team. We don’t take that for granted,” he said.
“Our goal was to make them happy and give them something to celebrate. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen that way, but we sincerely appreciate their unwavering support throughout the tournament.”
Despite the disappointment of their Round of 32 exit, Mensah believes the Black Stars have laid a platform to build on and is confident the squad will return stronger as they begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign later this year.
