World Cup: Otumfuo and Mahama’s Goodwill Messages Delivered to Black Stars Ahead of Opener

Messages of goodwill from Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the King of the Asante Kingdom, and John Dramani Mahama, the President of Ghana, have been sent to the Black Stars in Canada. This comes ahead of their opening match against Panama in the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday.

The Asantehene was represented by a delegation made up of prominent paramount and sub chiefs led by Daasebre Otuo Siriboe II, Juabenhene, while the President was represented by Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.

The high-level joint visit to the camp of the team on June 16, 2026, was used to assure them of the leaders’ unflinching support.

Addressing the team, the Juabenhene indicated that His Majesty had been hindered by other equally important matters of state.

“Otumfuo would have very much wished to be here this afternoon….He hopes that he may be with you in person at the stadium tomorrow and that you will be dedicating the first. He expects you to play as a team and not be individualistic. Respect your opponents and be confident in your ability to win. You have the best of players among you.”

For her part, the Veep wished the players and technical staff success throughout the tournament and assured them that the entire nation was behind them and expected them to compete with pride and unity.

The team is preparing for their opening FIFA World Cup match against Panama.

Among the high-powered delegation were the High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, HE Myriam Montrat, Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada, H.E. Prof. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh and the Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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