Bawumia visits Black Stars ahead of Central African Republic clash

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia visited the Black Stars ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic on Monday, June 10, 2024.

The Black Stars of Ghana, buoyed by a 2-1 victory over Mali on June 6, 2024, are set to face C.A.R at the Baba Yara Stadium.

Before the game, scheduled for 19:00 GMT, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party visited the team at their hotel to offer some words of motivation.

Photos shared by the Ghana Football Association on their social media handle show Dr. Bawumia engaging with players like Jordan Ayew, Tariq Lamptey, Thomas Partey, and others.

In anticipation of the match at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Black Stars coach Otto Addo has called on football fans in Kumasi to turn out in large numbers and support the team, as they have always done.

At a press conference on Sunday, Otto Addo expressed his gratitude to the fans in Kumasi, praising them for their significant turnout at his first game as Black Stars coach, which was against Nigeria in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

Otto Addo also confirmed the team's readiness for tonight's match, revealing that there are no injury concerns.

"I was really overwhelmed the last time we were here. To be honest, I didn't expect that, especially after a disappointing AFCON, that people would still support us. This is what makes me love Kumasi no matter what. In football, and in every situation, when you are down, that is when you need support the most, and I will never forget what Kumasi did for us. They cheered us up, and I think we played a decent game.

"We had 60% ball possession; we dominated them (Nigeria), we just lacked a goal. It was great to see, and I love coming to Kumasi to play. Now, this is exactly what I also expect: support until the final whistle, and I am very happy to be here. Because I know this will give an extra boost to the players.

"Even in difficult times or when things are tough, they will support us, and it's a good feeling. Mentally, it's beneficial for the players to come here and know they have the backing of the Kumasi fans.

We had a few injuries. As I said, it was a tough match, but it seems everyone will train fully today, and I am confident that everyone will be ready for tomorrow's game," he said.

Ghana is third in Group I with six points. Madagascar and Comoros, who are first and second respectively, have the same number of points but a superior goal difference.

🫶🏾 An incredible boost of support from the Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as he visits our team ahead of tonight’s game against Central African Republic. #BlackStars | #FIFAWCQ | @MBawumia pic.twitter.com/dSLfEBpzQ7

— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 10, 2024