Don’t dwell on World Cup disappointment – Kurt Okraku tells Ghanaians

Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has urged Ghanaians to look beyond the Black Stars’ FIFA World Cup exit and continue believing in the national team.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by him, following Ghana’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Black Stars bowed out of the competition after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the final Round of 32 fixture on July 4, 2026, at the Kansas City Stadium in Missouri. Midfielder Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute to send Colombia through to the Round of 16.

Reflecting on the campaign, Mr. Okraku acknowledged the disappointment of the result but appealed to Ghanaians not to allow the setback to overshadow the team’s achievements at the tournament.

“Let us not use this moment to dwell on the disappointment of the team’s inability to advance to the next Round of the World Cup but forge ahead with renewed determination and oneness of purpose to build a stronger team for the future,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to supporters across Ghana and around the world for their unwavering encouragement throughout the tournament.

“We also thank the wonderful people of Ghana and our supporters around the world for your faith in the team. Your belief and support gave the Black Stars the strength to fight in every match,” Mr. Okraku stated.

The GFA president said the players deserved recognition for exceeding expectations by progressing from a challenging group despite doubts before the competition.

“Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, many doubted the team’s ability to compete at this global stage. Yet, the Black Stars responded by qualifying from a difficult group into the Round of 32. That resilience should make every Ghanaian and our supporters proud,” he said.

Mr. Okraku added that the experience gained in the United States, Canada and Mexico would help shape a stronger national team for future competitions.

“Football is a journey of both triumph and learning. Every challenge strengthens our resolve, and every experience prepares us for future opportunities. The technical team and players have learned invaluable lessons from this 2026 World Cup campaign that will make the Black Stars stronger to compete for future laurels,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Ghana, sponsors, partners, the technical team, players and support staff for their commitment throughout the campaign.

Ghana finished the World Cup having played four matches, scoring only two goals while conceding three.

The Black Stars came under criticism for their defensive approach and lack of attacking threat, managing no shots on target in the defeat to Colombia despite the South Americans controlling 61 per cent possession and completing 532 accurate passes compared with Ghana’s 312.

Mr. Okraku, however, insisted the future remains bright, saying the Football Association is committed to building a stronger and more balanced team capable of challenging for continental honours and achieving greater success on the world stage.