Businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has pledged a special financial reward to the Black Stars should they defeat Croatia and secure qualification to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mahama made the announcement during a visit to the team’s training base in Rhode Island on Thursday, where he joined a high-powered Ghanaian delegation to rally support for the national team ahead of their decisive Group L encounter.
The delegation was led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, and included Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams as well as Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The officials conveyed a message of encouragement from President John Dramani Mahama, urging the players to give everything in pursuit of a place in the Round of 32.
Addressing the squad and technical team, Ibrahim Mahama commended head coach Carlos Queiroz for the remarkable transformation he has brought to the Black Stars in a relatively short period.
“I’m very proud because you came in at a shorter time, and you’ve been able to put the boys together. Wonderful performance,” Mahama told the Portuguese coach.
He then challenged the players to complete the mission against Croatia, promising a lucrative bonus that would come directly from him if they qualify for the knockout phase.
“I have a much better bonus for you than the taxpayers because they have to go to Parliament. I don’t have to go to Parliament. Please do us proud,” Mahama said, drawing applause and laughter from the players and officials present.
The pledge is expected to further boost morale within the camp as Ghana prepares for what is effectively a winner-takes-all encounter against Croatia.
Ibrahim Mahama has remained one of the Black Stars’ strongest supporters throughout the tournament. Earlier this year, his company made headlines after donating US$5 million during the national fundraising campaign launched to support Ghana’s participation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Black Stars enter Saturday’s final Group L fixture in a strong position after opening their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama before earning a disciplined goalless draw against England. Those results have left Ghana with four points, meaning a win over Croatia would guarantee progression to the Round of 32.
With government officials, corporate leaders and millions of Ghanaians firmly behind them, the Black Stars will head into the crucial clash knowing both national pride and an additional financial reward await if they can overcome Croatia and extend their World Cup adventure.
