Following Ghana’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), forward Joseph Paintsil has urged Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Despite the national team’s struggles in the AFCON qualifiers, where they finished at the bottom of Group F with just three points from six games, Paintsil remains hopeful for the future. The Black Stars recorded no victories, with three losses and three draws, leaving their fans disheartened.

However, Paintsil emphasized the importance of support, acknowledging that football has become more competitive globally. “This is football – now all nations are really good,” he stated. “It’s not like 10 years ago when you could easily predict a win. Now, every team is capable of surprising you.”

The LA Galaxy forward is calling on the nation to unite in support of the Black Stars as they head into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March 2025. Ghana’s upcoming fixtures will see them face Chad and Madagascar in March, and Paintsil is confident that with the right backing, the team will make the country proud and secure a spot in the World Cup.

“We need your prayers and support,” he said. “Come in your numbers to support us, and we will make you proud. We’ll keep the World Cup ticket in your pockets.”