With Ghana set to begin its 2026 FIFA World Cup journey this week, the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on all Ghanaians to unite in prayer and support for the Black Stars as they seek success on the global stage.
The revered Islamic leader extended his goodwill and blessings to the national team ahead of their opening Group L fixture against Panama, scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 15, the Chief Imam expressed confidence in the team’s ability to represent the nation with distinction and urged citizens to stand firmly behind the players throughout the tournament.
The Black Stars will be making Ghana’s fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup and are aiming to improve upon their performances at the previous two editions, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage.
A Call for Divine Guidance
The Chief Imam emphasized the importance of spiritual support as the team embarks on its campaign, praying for divine favour and protection for everyone involved with the national team. “His Eminence prays that Almighty Allah grants the players, technical team, and management divine guidance, strength, wisdom, unity, discipline, and resilience throughout the tournament,” part of the statement read.
He further prayed for the safety of the squad and asked for protection against injuries that could hamper Ghana’s ambitions at the competition.
According to the statement, the Chief Imam hopes the team will display excellence, dignity, and honour while representing the nation on the global stage.
The Black Stars, under the guidance of head coach Carlos Queiroz, are expected to face stiff competition in their group containing England, Croatia and Panama but remain determined to make a significant impact at the tournament.
Imams Across Ghana Mobilised
Following a recent visit by officials of the Ghana Football Association to his office, Sheikh Sharubutu directed Imams across the country to remember the Black Stars in their prayers and supplications.
Regional and District Imams have specifically been encouraged to dedicate special prayers to the national team ahead of the Panama encounter and throughout Ghana’s World Cup campaign.
The move forms part of a nationwide spiritual effort aimed at rallying support behind the players as they seek to bring joy to millions of Ghanaians.
Religious leaders have traditionally played an important role in supporting national teams during major tournaments, often mobilising congregations to offer prayers for success and protection.
The Chief Imam’s latest intervention reflects the significance attached to the World Cup and the hopes many Ghanaians have placed on the Black Stars.
Football as a Symbol of National Unity
Beyond the sporting aspect, the Chief Imam highlighted the unifying power of football and the important role the Black Stars play in bringing Ghanaians together. “The Black Stars carry not only the aspirations of football supporters but also the collective hopes, pride, and identity of the Ghanaian people,” he noted.
He added that the team’s participation on the world stage serves as “a powerful symbol of national unity and patriotism, transcending political, ethnic, and religious differences.”
The respected cleric therefore appealed to citizens across the country to put aside their differences and rally behind the team with a common purpose. He encouraged Ghanaians to support the players “with one voice and one spirit” as they chase success at the tournament.
Concluding his message, the Chief Imam offered a final prayer for the team, saying “May Almighty Allah bless the Black Stars with success and make their participation a source of pride, joy, and inspiration for Ghana and future generations. Go Black Stars! Go Ghana!”
The Black Stars are scheduled to depart Rhode Island for Toronto on Monday ahead of Wednesday’s crucial opener against Panama, carrying with them the hopes and prayers of an entire nation eager to witness a memorable World Cup campaign.
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