World Cup 2026: Daniel Kofi Kyereh tells Black Stars to ‘fight for each other and stay united’

Ghana international Daniel Kofi Kyereh has delivered an emotional message on Instagram ahead of the Black Stars’ World Cup 2026 opener against Panama.

He reflected on his long-standing connection with the national team despite being ruled out of the tournament through injury.

Kyereh, who has endured more than three years on the sidelines and recently returned to competitive action, was not selected for the World Cup squad as he continues his recovery journey.

Deep connection to the Black Stars

In his message, the forward highlighted the deep personal meaning of representing Ghana and the responsibility that comes with wearing the national colours.

“Wearing this badge has never been just football to me it’s identity, it’s family, it’s home.

“Every time I step onto this stage, I carry the voices, dreams, and belief of an entire nation with me. From my first call-up to every moment in between, Ghana has shaped who I am on and off the pitch.

“Tonight is another reminder of what it means to represent something bigger than yourself. Fight for each other, stay united, and trust the spirit that lives within this team.

“No matter the moment, we move as one. Always Ghana.”

Ghana’s World Cup challenge

The message comes as Ghana prepare for a crucial Group stage encounter against Panama, a fixture widely viewed as vital to their qualification hopes. Drawn alongside two European heavyweights, both sides are expected to target maximum points in a group where only the top two teams advance.

Black Stars’ tournament record and expectations

The Black Stars, who topped their qualifying group ahead of Madagascar and Mali, are featuring at their fifth World Cup, all within the 21st century. Despite reaching the quarter-finals in 2010, Ghana have struggled in recent editions, exiting at the group stage in both 2014 and 2022.

Queiroz tasked with revival

Under new head coach Carlos Queiroz, the team are aiming to reverse a run of six defeats in their last seven matches, with renewed hope that stability and unity can spark a turnaround on the global stage.