By Nicholas Osei-Wusu
This year’s World Cup kicks off tonight, with Ghana’s Senior National Football team, the Black Stars, among the 48 participating teams. Reports from Kumasi however indicate, enthusiasm among residents is low compared to Ghana’s previous appearances.
In spite of the low expectations for the Ghanaian team, patronage for Black Star’s paraphernalia is on the increase, according to retailers.
Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, is known for its vibrant football culture, with about 8 out of every 10 male residents being football enthusiasts. The city came alive during Ghana’s previous appearances at the tournament. Expectations were that, interest in this year’s competition would either match or exceed previous levels.
However, when gbcghanaonline surveyed the atmosphere in the city, people were largely going about their normal socio-economic activities, with little acknowledgment that the World Cup was about to begin.
Interestingly, some residents expressed little interest in discussing the Black Stars or the tournament. Those who spoke to GBC generally shared the view that Ghana was only participating to make up the numbers.
There was, however, a point of divergence. One group, although not particularly optimistic about the team’s prospects, said they would support the Black Stars out of patriotism.
“As some are ready to play in the World Cup, we’re also eager to watch it. We’ll support our nation, Ghana, and hope they make a positive impact, even if they can’t win the tournament,” Seidu Awudu said proudly.
Muhammed Mustapha said: “In fact, the preparation has not been encouraging. We’re only going to add to the numbers. I’m certain we’re not going to make any impact, but as a Ghanaian, I have no option but to support and pray for the Black Stars. That’s all we have.”
“I’m looking forward to Ghana’s first match on June 17. We’ll all watch it on TV and support the team. My other national team in the tournament is Brazil,” Akwasi Asare told GBC.
Another group wrote off Ghana’s chances entirely, with some opting to support other national teams instead of the Black Stars. They attributed the apparent indifference among Ghanaians to factors such as the absence of standout players in the squad and alleged interference in player selection.
“There’s no confidence in our team. That’s why no one around is flaunting Black Stars paraphernalia. To me, Ghana’s participation in the World Cup is just a waste of money. We would have been better off spending those funds on important national development projects,” said Nana Wusus.
Another resident, Alvin Boateng, said: “It will be difficult. If you compare this team to the previous ones, well, anything is possible. Let’s pray for them and hope for some surprises.”
To assess patronage of Black Stars merchandise, GBC visited some of the popular outlets around the General Post Office area and the central business district of Adum.
It was observed that, unlike previous years, there were about 10 different designs, colours and sizes of Black Stars-branded jerseys on sale, in addition to other merchandise.
At Takoradian Brothers Shop, which deals exclusively in sportswear, shop attendant Frank Nunoo told GBC that patronage of Black Stars-branded merchandise for the World Cup has been increasing steadily, with expectations of a further surge ahead of Ghana’s opening match.
“I can’t point to any particular reason, but patronage of Black Stars jerseys is increasing. The buyers include men, women and children. Ghanaian returnees from abroad are also patronising the merchandise. Prices are moderate, ranging from GH¢120 to GH¢150 depending on the design and quality. There are more designs this time around than in previous years,” he said.
GBC also encountered several people enthusiastically purchasing team jerseys and mufflers, including one Tijani, who was buying enough for members of his immediate family and friends.
“We’re excited to be part of the World Cup. Buying these items is one way of showing our support and excitement for Ghana,” he said.
“I got one for myself, my daughter, my wife and a couple of friends. It’s a bit expensive, but it’s worth it to support the Black Stars.”
Ghana is scheduled to play its first match of the tournament against Panama on June 17, 2026. This marks the country’s fifth appearance at the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
