Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, has called on the Black Stars to take lessons from their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign and keep their focus on the tasks ahead, following Ghana’s Round of 32 defeat to Colombia at the Kansas City Stadium.
Addressing the team after the match, Adams commended the players for their performance despite the early exit.
“We have what it takes to compete at every World Cup, get out of the group stages and even go further,” he said.
“It’s disappointing we didn’t get the result we wanted. But we played well, and I believe we have no regrets about being here. People are congratulating us because they saw a good team on the pitch. That means you showed something.”
The Minister urged the squad to use the tournament as a learning curve.“The few mistakes we made must become a platform for growth,” Adams stated.
“You must come out of this a better player in your role. Don’t let it weigh you down.”
He also backed Coach Carlos Queiroz’s emphasis on unity, reminding the players that the job is not done.
“As the coach said, this is a team, not just a collection of individuals. We came as a team, we played as a team, and we are going back as a team,” he noted.
“International football doesn’t stop here. We will be calling on you again for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and we expect you to respond.”
Adams further advised the players not to be distracted by criticism on social media after the loss.
“The country appreciates your service,” he said.
“I know when we get home you’ll see all kinds of posts, analysis, and criticism online. Please, you are professionals. Don’t let those comments break you. Let them motivate you to do more and be better.”
“You came as a team, you played as a team, and you gave your best. For that, we are grateful. Ghana is grateful,” the Minister concluded.
The Black Stars will now shift attention to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers as preparations for the next chapter of international football begin.
