“Many Doubted Us” – GFA President Hails Black Stars After World Cup Round of 32 Exit

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has paid glowing tribute to the Black Stars following their exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, commending the team for defying early doubts and advancing to the Round of 32.

In a heartfelt message addressed to Ghanaians and supporters of the national team, Okraku acknowledged the disappointment of the 1-0 defeat to Colombia in Kansas City but urged the nation to take pride in the team’s resilience and progress.

“Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, many doubted the team’s ability to compete at this global stage,” he said. “Yet, the Black Stars responded by qualifying from a difficult group into the Round of 32. That resilience should make every Ghanaian proud.”

Ghana’s campaign in North America saw the team record a notable goalless draw against England, a victory over Panama, and a competitive group-stage performance that secured qualification to the knockout round for the first time since 2010.

Their journey ended with a narrow defeat to Colombia, but the GFA President insisted the performance reflects steady progress for the national side.

He expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana, sponsors, and technical staff, while also commending head coach Carlos Queiroz and the players for their commitment and sacrifice throughout the tournament.

“Football is a journey of both triumph and learning. Every challenge strengthens our resolve, and every experience prepares us for future opportunities,” Okraku added.

Looking ahead, he pledged the GFA’s commitment to building a stronger squad capable of competing for continental honours and returning to the World Cup on a more consistent basis.

He concluded by calling for national unity behind the team, stating: “The future of Ghana football remains bright.”

Below is his full statement:

2026 FIFA MEN’S WORLD CUP: PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION

My dear Ghanaian brothers and sisters and cherished supporters of the Black Stars,

On behalf of the Ghana Football Association, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to you all for standing firmly behind our national team throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Our journey ended at the Round of 32 of the tournament, and as disappointing as this is for all of us, we are immensely proud of the team for the courage and passion they portrayed in representing the country.

Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, many doubted the team’s ability to compete at this global stage. Yet, the Black Stars responded by qualifying from a difficult group into the Round of 32. That resilience should make every Ghanaian and our supporters proud.Ghana political commentary

Football is a journey of both triumph and learning. Every challenge strengthens our resolve, and every experience prepares us for future opportunities. The technical team and players have learned invaluable lessons from this 2026 World Cup campaign that will make the Black Stars stronger to compete for future laurels.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Government of Ghana for their unwavering support, and to all our sponsors and partners whose contributions made this journey possible. Above all, I would like to thank the Head Coach, Players, Technical Team and the supporting staff for their dedication, commitment and sacrifice for the nation.

We also thank the wonderful people of Ghana and our supporters around the world for your faith in the team. Your belief and support gave the Black Stars the strength to fight in every match.

The future of Ghana football remains bright. The Football Association is committed to building a stronger, deeper and balanced team that will return to the Africa Cup of Nations, challenge for continental glory, and reach even greater heights on the world stage.

Let us not use this moment to dwell on the disappointment of the team’s inability to advance to the next Round of the World Cup but forge ahead with renewed determination and oneness of purpose to build a stronger team for the future.

May God continue to bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong.

Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku

President, Ghana Football Association &

2nd Vice President, Confederation of African Football