We want to make Ghana proud – Jordan Ayew calls for prayers ahead of 3 massive World Cup games
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has urged Ghanaians to keep praying for the team as they head into what he described as three massive games at the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at a send-off event in Alexandria, Virginia, ahead of the team's departure to Rhode Island, Ayew said the squad is motivated to make the nation proud when Ghana faces Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.
"We have three massive games for us, and we want to make you guys proud, we want to make Ghana proud," Ayew said.
Challenge ahead
The former Swansea City and Crystal Palace forward admitted the group stage will be challenging but backed the team to succeed with the nation behind them.
"Obviously, it's not going to be easy, but with your prayers and your support, hopefully we'll be successful," he stated.
Ayew, set to lead Ghana at his third FIFA World Cup, said the players are fully aware of expectations back home.
'We're here to make history'
"We want to thank everyone for your support and keep on praying for us because we're here to make history," he added.
The Black Stars wrapped up their training camp in Washington and have since arrived in Providence, Rhode Island, to finalise preparations.
Group L fixtures
Ghana opens its World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on Tuesday, June 17, before taking on England on 23rd June in Boston and Croatia on 27th June in Philadelphia.
Ayew is the most experienced member of Carlos Queiroz's 26-man squad and will lead the team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
The send-off event in Alexandria was attended by members of the Ghanaian diaspora, business leaders and community organisations who gathered to rally behind the national team. The Black Stars will be aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, when Ghana came within a penalty kick of the semi-finals.
Ayew's leadership will be crucial as Ghana navigates a difficult group that includes European heavyweights England and Croatia, as well as Panama, who are appearing at their fourth World Cup. The captain has been a key figure in Queiroz's setup, providing experience and stability to a squad that blends veterans with exciting young talents.
The Black Stars have not won a match since October 2025, and the team will be desperate to end that run when they face Panama in their opening fixture. Ayew's call for prayers and support reflects the team's determination to turn their form around on the biggest stage.
Ghana's final preparations are now underway in Rhode Island, with the team expected to hold several training sessions before travelling to Toronto for their opening match. The Black Stars will be looking to start their campaign with a victory to boost confidence ahead of the tougher tests against England and Croatia.
