2026 World Cup: ‘David can still defeat Goliath’ – Sports Minister gives biblical backing to Black Stars
Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has urged Ghanaians not to underestimate the Black Stars’ chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing confidence that the team can defy expectations and challenge some of football’s biggest nations.
Despite being viewed by many observers as underdogs ahead of the tournament, Mr Adams believes Ghana possess the determination and belief needed to make a significant impact on the global stage.
The Black Stars have secured a place at their fifth FIFA World Cup and will compete in the expanded tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Drawn in a challenging Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, Ghana will begin their campaign against Panama before facing England and Croatia.
Speaking during a church service at the Philadelphia Church in Ghana, Mr Adams drew inspiration from the biblical story of David and Goliath, suggesting that the Black Stars can overcome the odds against more highly-rated opponents.
“Per the rankings, no one believes Ghana will perform at the World Cup, but since we are here, we have come for the symbolic stone David used to bring down Goliath for the Black Stars, for the team to conquer all the big guns at the tournament,” he said.
His comments come as the national team intensifies preparations in the United States ahead of the competition, which is set to begin this month.
Ghana enter the tournament hoping to rekindle memories of their memorable 2010 campaign in South Africa, where they became only the third African nation to reach the quarter-finals of a FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars have previously featured at the World Cup in 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2022, producing several memorable performances that have cemented their reputation as one of Africa’s most competitive football nations.
While England and Croatia are widely considered favourites to progress from Group L, Ghana will be aiming to upset the predictions and write another chapter in their World Cup history.
For many Ghanaian supporters, the challenge may be daunting, but as the Sports Minister’s message suggests, football has often shown that giants can fall when determination, belief and opportunity come together.
Comments (0)