World Cup 2026: Kurt Okraku Proud of Black Stars Despite Round of 32 Elimination

Ghana: Ghana FA president Kurt Okraku is 'immensely proud' of the Black Stars after reaching the last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. The Black Stars exited the tournament after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in Kansas City on Friday evening.

According to Ghana Web, the FA boss expressed that the players should be proud after making the second round of the competition when many doubted them. "Our journey ended at the Round of 32 of the tournament, and as disappointing as this is for all of us, we are immensely proud of the team for the courage and passion they portrayed in representing the country," he said in a statement released on the FA's website.

Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, many had questioned the team's ability to compete on this global stage, yet the Black Stars responded by qualifying from a challenging group into the Round of 32. Okraku emphasized that this resilience should make every Ghanaian and their supporters proud.

The FA boss believes that the 2026 World Cup will serve as a significant learning experience for the players. "Football is a journey of both triumph and learning. Every challenge strengthens our resolve, and every experience prepares us for future opportunities. The technical team and players have learned invaluable lessons from this 2026 World Cup campaign that will make the Black Stars stronger to compete for future laurels," he stated.