Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has urged Ghanaians to rally behind the national team as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the squad is fully committed to making the country proud on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking at Ghana’s official send-off ceremony ahead of the team’s departure to Canada, the experienced forward highlighted the weight of responsibility that comes with representing the nation at the tournament. He called on supporters to continue backing the team throughout their campaign.
“We have three massive games ahead of us and we want to make you all proud, to make Ghana proud,” Ayew said. “It’s not going to be easy, but with your prayers and your support, hopefully we will be successful.”
“We are here to make history,” he added, while thanking fans and stakeholders for their continued encouragement.
Ghana head into the tournament with renewed ambition, targeting a return to the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run in 2010. The Black Stars will face a demanding group stage against England, Croatia, and Panama.
Ayew, now 34, has taken on the captain’s armband at a pivotal moment for Ghanaian football. He has been in strong form during the qualification campaign, contributing 14 goal involvements — scoring seven goals and providing seven assists — as Ghana topped their group to secure World Cup qualification.
Beyond his performances on the pitch, Ayew has also embraced a leadership role within the squad, often speaking about unity, belief, and the importance of inspiring the next generation.
In a light-hearted moment recently, he joked that he would even reserve space for a tattoo of the World Cup trophy if Ghana were to achieve the ultimate success.
The tournament will also mark a personal milestone for him, as he is set to become Ghana’s oldest-ever World Cup player, surpassing Denis Odoi’s record.
Under the guidance of coach Carlos Queiroz, the Black Stars have been encouraged to approach the tournament with confidence and pride, as expectations grow ahead of Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance.
With belief running high, Ayew and his teammates now carry the hopes of a nation as they aim to write a new chapter in Ghana’s football history.
