President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku says the Black Stars are in the United States to compete and fight for the title as the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off.

Speaking at a farewell dinner for the team at the Hilton Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia on Wednesday, President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku told hundreds of Ghanaians in the diaspora that he is very upbeat about Ghana’s chances in Group L.

“We strongly believe in this team, and we know that we are not here to be counted among the numbers but to compete and fight for the title,” President Okraku said.

The CAF 2nd Vice President praised the squad’s quality and mentality ahead of Ghana’s opener against Panama in Toronto on June 17.

“I strongly believe in these players and, over time, they have proven that they have the quality, the talent, the hunger and the desire to make Ghana proud.”

With doubts surrounding the Black Stars after recent tournaments, President Okraku struck a defiant tone.

“This is our time to shine. The stakes are high. A lot of people don’t believe, but I do. I feel energized and very upbeat about our chances in this tournament. We are Ghana, and we shall conquer.”

The farewell event was attended by the Mayor of Alexandria, Alyia Gaskins, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Black Stars Head Coach Carlos Queiroz, and the full playing body.

President Okraku thanked the Ghanaian community for their support: “Thank you for your show of love towards the team. We are ready to battle for glory.”

Ghana have since arrived in Providence, Rhode Island, to continue preparations before facing Panama, England, and Croatia in Group L.

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