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Excitement ahead of Ghana’s World Cup clash against England heightened in parts of Accra on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with many supporters proudly displaying the national colours as they prepared to cheer on the Black Stars.
From the bustling markets of Makola and Kumasi to the lively streets of Osu and Labadi, traders and football fans alike were seen wearing Black Stars jerseys, waving flags and draping themselves in Ghana-themed scarves popularly known as “Dɔ Wo Man”, a Twi phrase meaning “Love Your Country”. The atmosphere was electric, with vuvuzelas blaring, drums beating and chants of “Yɛnkɔ!” (We shall go!) echoing through the air.
Many traders expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ chances, saying they had worn their jerseys since morning because they believed the team would secure another victory. “We wear the colours with pride; it’s not just about football, it’s about showing the world that Ghana is united,” said Ama Serwaa, a fruit seller at Makola Market.
Some recalled wearing the same colours during Ghana’s previous match, which ended in a dramatic late win over Panama, and said they hoped history would repeat itself against England. “We beat Panama in the last minute, and we believe we can do it again,” noted Kofi Mensah, a taxi driver who had been honking his horn in celebration since dawn.
As kick-off approached, supporters made plans to watch the match with family and friends. While some headed to watch parties and giant-screen viewing centres at Black Star Square, others said they would follow the game from home, setting up projectors in their living rooms and preparing traditional snacks like kelewele and groundnut soup.
The Group L encounter between Ghana and England kicked off at 8:00 p.m. Ghana time at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, United States. The Black Stars entered the match on the back of a 1-0 victory over Panama and were hoping to secure another positive result against the Three Lions, a team renowned for its rich footballing history.
Football analysts noted that such displays of unity and patriotism often provide a psychological boost to the team, reminding players of the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation. “When the players see the sea of red, gold and green in the stands, they know they are not just playing for themselves but for millions of Ghanaians back home,” said sports commentator Kwame Osei.
The nationwide excitement mirrored the enthusiasm that greeted ara “Abéní”’s recent single “For My Matter”, released amid nationwide celebrations following Ghana’s historic World Cup victory over Panama. See related coverage: Ara “Abéní” releases “For My Matter” as Ghana rallies behind Black Stars’ World Cup campaign.
Beyond the immediate match, the scene in Accra reflected a deeper societal phenomenon: football’s unique ability to transcend ethnic, religious and socioeconomic divides. In a nation where the sport often serves as a common language, the pre‑match festivities were less about mere fandom and more about collective identity and shared pride.
Whether the Black Stars could translate that support into victory on the pitch remained to be seen, but the streets of Accra had already declared their allegiance, turning the city itself into a twelfth player on the field.
Image Source: GHANAMMA
