World Cup fever creeps in Ghana

The 2014 FIFA World Cup is almost here with us and the month-long soccer fiesta is gradually beginning to dominate conversations in offices, markets, public transport, chop bars and even in churches.

The soccer extravaganza kicks off in Brazil on June 12 and lovers of the game would have the chance to observe the rivalry but  fun-filled event to see who wins the treasured World Cup in the end.

This year, Ghana will be appearing for the third time in the World Cup, with our first match coming off against the United States on June 16.  Other nations in the same group with Ghana and the United States are Portugal and Germany.

They are all strong football nations but Ghanaian fans are already talking of  the national team, the Black Stars bringing  home the cherished World Cup trophy.

 In Accra, sellers of paraphernalia such as replica jerseys, caps, mufflers and miniature flags are beginning to do brisk business at places such as Kaneshie Market, Kwame Nkrumah Circle and Oxford Street in Osu. 

 The World Cup  fever has  caught up with females, who have in recent times, become vociferous supporters of the Black Stars. For the male fans, the excitement is even greater.

Indeed, the tournament has bridged the gap between the young and the old, leading to an increase in the patronage  of football paraphernalia. 

Some sellers in some of the markets have already switched from selling items like children’s clothes and general footwear to concentrate on football-related items.

Football has always been a medium that brings Ghanaians from all walks of life together, especially  when Ghana is involved in an important international tournament like the FIFA World Cup.

When The Mirror went to town to measure the views of some  supporters on how they are preparing for the World Cup, most of the respondents sounded positive about Ghana’s chances of advancing at least beyond the group stage.

 Lawrence Lamptey, a Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU ) official said he  believed the  Black Stars would bring home the cup.

 “All I want from them is teamwork and patriotism and they would go far in the tournament.  I know that Ghana’s first match against USA would not be a problem. It is the one against Portugal that would be a tough one”. 

George Adjeitey, a civil servant, wished the Black Stars well.

“I know victory is theirs if they aim at it. I encourage the players to put in their best to make Ghana proud. That’s all we wish for at Brazil 2014.”

Cecilia Boateng, a shop attendant, said though she was not a keen football fan, she prayed for the Black Stars to win anytime the ­­team was involved in a tough match.

" I hope Ghana will make history by being the first African country to win the World Cup.”

James Laryea, a vendor, also said that   sales are not that booming at the moment but he hoped things would get better by the time the tournament starts. 

Kofi Anim, a driver, however, said he had  decided to wait until the tournament begins before getting fully into the  mood. 

“I wish the Black Stars well and hope they bring the cup to Ghana to make the nation proud. The tournament is all about winning, so the Stars should aim at that.”