Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has urged Ghanaian supporters to turn up in numbers and create a powerful atmosphere as Ghana prepare to open their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Panama this evening.
The Group L clash is scheduled for 23:00 GMT (11:00 PM) at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, and is considered a must-win game for the four-time African champions. A strong result would give the winner an ideal start in the group stage.
Speaking in a pre-match presser ahead of the crucial opener, Queiroz acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed confidence in his team while stressing the importance of fan support.
“We know where we are; we know the size of the mountain that we have in front of us that we have to climb,” Queiroz said.
“But in the stadium, to be honest with you, I expect better. I expect that our fans will even do it better because we need the player number 12. We know that the fans from the other team will also be supporting.”
He added passionately: “I hope that during the game, the drums of Ghana, there will be 90 minutes in our hearts to accelerate the beat of our hearts.”
The experienced Portuguese coach’s words come at a vital moment, as the Black Stars look to the Ghanaian fans to rally behind the team and provide the extra energy needed in what promises to be a tense and highly charged World Cup opener.
By: Iddrisu Abdul Rahim
