World Cup 2026: Asamoah Gyan urges unity as Ghana begin campaign against Panama

Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has issued an emotional appeal to Ghanaians, calling for unity and unwavering support for the national team ahead of their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama.

In a statement titled “My People,” the Ghana legend described the Black Stars as the nation’s pride and “only product,” congratulating the 26-man squad selected for the tournament and expressing confidence in their ability to represent the country with distinction on football’s biggest stage.

Gyan urged Ghanaians both at home and abroad to set aside differences and rally behind the team, emphasising football’s unique power to bring the country together. He stressed that collective backing would be vital as the Black Stars aim to project Ghana’s identity and strengthen its global football reputation.

The former striker also acknowledged several key stakeholders, including President John Mahama, Sports Minister Kofi Adams, the Ghana Football Association led by Kurt Okraku, the media, and supporters, praising what he described as a shared national effort in getting the team to the tournament.

“Win, lose or draw,” his message suggested, “the nation remains united,” as he urged the players to rise to the occasion and make the country proud when they step onto the pitch in Toronto.

Ghana open their Group L campaign against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, at BMO Field in Toronto. The fixture has already attracted strong attention as the Black Stars look to make a winning start in a group that also includes England and Croatia.

The team has already arrived in Canada and is scheduled to hold a mandatory training session ahead of the encounter.

After facing Panama, Ghana will meet England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group-stage matches against Croatia on June 27, with hopes of reaching the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

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