Former Ghana captain Andre Dede Ayew has sent a message of support and encouragement to the Black Stars ahead of their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama.
In a statement shared on his official Instagram account, Ayew urged the players and technical team to embrace the responsibility of representing Ghana on football’s biggest stage and reminded them that the entire nation stands firmly behind them.
“As you prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, know that an entire nation stands behind you,” Ayew wrote. “You wear more than a jersey. You carry the hopes, dreams, pride and spirit of millions of Ghanaians at home and across the world.”
The 36-year-old called on the squad to trust in their abilities and the work that earned them qualification for the tournament.
“Believe in yourselves. Believe in your talent. Believe in the work that brought you here. You have earned your place on football’s biggest stage,” he added.
Ayew’s words carry particular significance given his own history with the national team. The veteran forward is Ghana’s most-capped player with over 120 appearances and has represented the Black Stars at three FIFA World Cups in 2010, 2014 and 2022. He was part of the squad that reached the quarter-finals in South Africa in 2010, Ghana’s best-ever performance at the tournament.
The son of Ghana legend Abedi Pele also captained the Black Stars for several years and remains one of the country’s most influential football figures despite not being part of the current World Cup squad.
In his message, Ayew encouraged the team to remain united throughout the tournament.
“Difficult moments will come. Challenges will come. But champions are made in unity and resolve when it matters most,” he said.
Ghana face Panama tonight in Toronto knowing a positive result could provide a crucial platform in a challenging Group L that also includes England and Croatia.
By Mandela Yaw Anuvabe
