Despite the heartbreak of missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), former President John Dramani Mahama has assured the Black Stars that the nation still believes in them.

During a surprise visit to the team’s camp on Wednesday, Mahama acknowledged their struggles but encouraged them to rediscover their winning mentality ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

“We didn’t qualify for AFCON. But even when we did the last time, we crashed out very early. That doesn’t mean we’ve given up on you,” he told the players and technical team. “We still believe that the Black Stars can find its glory again, and that depends on you, the technical team, and the management committee.”

He reminded the squad that while Ghanaian fans will always support them, their success ultimately lies in their dedication and sacrifice.

“The goals will come from these feet right here,” Mahama said, pointing to the players. “It takes strength, commitment, and sacrifice. We all love watching you play for your clubs, and we expect you to bring that same passion to the national team.”

With two vital games ahead, Otto Addo and his men are determined to bounce back from a tough 2024, where they won just two of their 10 matches. Ghana faces Chad on March 21 in Accra before traveling to Morocco to take on Madagascar three days later.

As the team prepares for these must-win encounters, Mahama’s words serve as a powerful reminder that the Black Stars still have a nation behind them—waiting for their resurgence.