Accra: Leaders of Ghana's football fraternity joined officials from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation in Accra on Sunday, May 17, 2026, for a national interdenominational thanksgiving and prayer service aimed at seeking divine guidance for the future of Ghana football, with special focus on the Black Stars' campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Ghana Web, the service, held at the All Saints Anglican Church in Adabraka, gathered football administrators, government officials, clergy, corporate sponsors, and key stakeholders within Ghana's football ecosystem. The gathering displayed faith, gratitude, and hope for success on and off the pitch.
The service was led by Rt Rev. Dr Daniel Sylvanus Torto, Anglican Bishop of Accra, who offered prayers for Ghana football and emphasized unity, discipline, and commitment across all levels of the sport. Notable attendees included Ghana Football Association (GFA) President and CAF 2nd Vice-President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Iddie Adams, and members of the GFA Executive Council.
A significant aspect of the service was the special prayers offered for the Black Stars following their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Clergy and stakeholders prayed for strength and success for the national team as they prepare for the global stage.
Prayers also extended to Ghana's broader football structure, including domestic competitions like the Ghana Premier League, Women's Premier League, and Division One League, acknowledging their progress and development.
GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku expressed gratitude to the clergy for their spiritual support and highlighted the importance of beginning and ending the World Cup qualification journey with prayer. He expressed optimism about Ghana's prospects at the tournament and reiterated the Black Stars' determination to make the nation proud.
Beyond the senior national team, prayers were offered for Ghana's youth and women's national sides. The Black Princesses were acknowledged for qualifying for another FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, and support was extended to the Black Starlets and the Black Maidens in their respective campaigns.
The gathering also celebrated the achievements of Ghana's U-15 girls' national team, who successfully defended their African Schools Football Championship title in Zimbabwe, indicating the country's investment in youth football development.
In a gesture of appreciation and unity, GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku and Sports Minister Kofi Adams presented official Black Stars jerseys to the bishops, underscoring a collective national commitment to support Ghana's teams in upcoming international competitions.