Ghana forward Joseph Paintsil has called on Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, following their disappointing failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Black Stars finished at the bottom of Group F in the AFCON qualifiers, with three points from six games, recording three defeats and three draws. Despite this setback, Paintsil believes the team can bounce back with the support of fans.
“This is football – now all nations are really good,” the LA Galaxy attacker said, as reported by Joy Sports. “It’s not like 10 years ago when you saw another team and thought, ‘Oh, this team, we are going to score them five or four.’ It’s a difficult situation now, and everybody is playing in Europe.”
He urged Ghanaians to avoid underestimating opponents and instead focus on supporting the team. “All they [Ghanaians] need to do is help us, pray for us, and support us in the upcoming qualification for the World Cup. That’s the most important thing.”
The Black Stars will regroup in March 2025 to prepare for their crucial qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in Matchdays 5 and 6. Paintsil is optimistic about the team’s prospects, promising fans, “We will make them proud and always give them their ticket in their pockets.”
