Accra: The leadership of the Ghana football fraternity joined Islamic faithful, administrators and national stakeholders on Friday, May 15, 2026, for a solemn national Islamic prayer session in support of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Held at the National Mosque in Kanda, Accra, the gathering brought together football officials, members of the Muslim community and key national figures in a display of faith, unity and patriotism as Ghana prepares for its fifth appearance at football's grandest stage.
According to Ghana Web, the prayer session was led by Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, who offered prayers for the Black Stars, invoking divine guidance, protection, wisdom, and success for the team as preparations intensify for the tournament in North America. In a moment of national solidarity, the Islamic leader interceded for the senior national team, praying for unity among players and officials and seeking Allah's favour as Ghana embarks on another World Cup journey.
Speaking at the gathering, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association and 2nd CAF Vice-President, expressed appreciation to the National Chief Imam and the Muslim community for their prayers and support for the Black Stars and Ghana football. The GFA President highlighted the importance of spiritual support in the team's preparations and appealed for continued prayers as Ghana seeks to make an impact on the global stage.
President Simeon-Okraku stated, 'As we all know, in the coming weeks, Ghana will take its place at the FIFA World Cup - a journey made possible through the grace of Almighty Allah, the prayers and blessings of our father, the National Chief Imam, and the unwavering support of all of you.' He added, 'Having qualified for this great stage, and as we prepare to go into battle carrying the hopes of an entire nation, it is only right that we come before Allah to seek His guidance, protection, wisdom and favour for the task ahead. We believe that with faith, unity and prayers, the Black Stars will make Ghana proud on the world stage.'
President Simeon-Okraku was accompanied by key members of Ghana football leadership, including Executive Council member Samuel Aboabire, Black Stars Management Committee member Moses Armah, Director of Marketing Jamil Maraby, Chief of Staff Michael Osekre, Dreams FC President Jiji Alifoe Mohammed and Vice President Prince Abdul Hamid.
The prayer session is part of broader nationwide efforts aimed at seeking divine guidance, protection and success for the Black Stars as excitement builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ghana's World Cup journey begins with a clash against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, followed by a high-profile encounter against England on June 23 in Boston before concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia - fixtures that will test the resolve of the four-time African champions as they seek to make the nation proud once again.