Herbert Mensah: Let 34 Million Ghanaians Become the Black Stars’ Twelfth Man at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Story by Achore Richard

As Ghana counts down to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the country’s most influential sports leaders, Herbert Mensah, has called on Ghanaians to put aside criticism and become a powerful source of inspiration for the Black Stars as they prepare to face the world.

Speaking during an interview with Rafatu Inusah, Herbert Mensah delivered a heartfelt message that transcended football, urging every Ghanaian to stand shoulder-to-shoulder behind the national team as they head to North America for the biggest tournament in world football.

For Mensah, the Black Stars are more than just a football team; they are a symbol of national pride, unity and hope.

“It’s only one Black Stars we have, and that’s Ghana,” he emphasized.

With Ghana set to take on Panama, England and Croatia in Group L, Mensah believes the players need the unwavering support of the entire nation. He described the Black Stars as a team carrying the dreams of over 34 million Ghanaians and challenged supporters to become the team’s “twelfth man” throughout the competition.

The Rugby Africa President praised the talent within the squad, pointing to players such as Antoine Semenyo, captain Jordan Ayew and their teammates, while expressing confidence in coach Carlos Queiroz to build a united and competitive side.

His message to the coach was simple but powerful: create harmony, build belief and get the players performing together as one.

As Ghana prepares for its opening match against Panama on June 17, followed by crucial encounters against England and Croatia, Mensah is convinced that unity within the team and support from home could make all the difference.

He also urged Ghanaians to remain supportive even in difficult moments, reminding the nation that every World Cup campaign comes with challenges.

Rather than blame and criticism, he called for encouragement, patience and belief.

According to him, the period of preparation has passed and the moment has arrived for every Ghanaian to rally behind the Black Stars and their leadership, led by the Ghana Football Association and its president, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku.

As the Black Stars prepare to step onto football’s biggest stage, Herbert Mensah’s rallying cry echoes across the nation: support the team, believe in the dream and let Ghana move forward as one family.

The journey to World Cup glory begins with eleven players on the pitch but behind them stand 34 million Ghanaians ready to cheer them on every step of the way. Go Ghana Go!

Below is Herbert Mensah message;