The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, (GNPC) headline sponsors of the national team, the Black Stars, on Friday congratulated the players of the team on the critical 1-0 win over the Eagles of Mali at the AFCON 2013 soccer tournament.

A statement signed by Eric Pwadura, acting Head of the Public Affairs Department of GNPC made mention of the teamwork, dedication and team spirit that earned them the crucial win.

“Ghanaians are in a jubilant mood following your victory in today’s match against Mali and the whole country expects this success to continue in subsequent matches to lift high the flag of Ghana”, the statement quoted the Chief Executive of GNPC, Nana Boakye Asafo Adjaye, as saying.

“We share your victory which reflects your passion for the game and a sign of your determination to succeed. You have made Ghana and GNPC proud and we urge you to continue to show professional excellence, teamwork and talent in your game, which are values that GNPC seeks to share with you.

“We are excited about our association with you as you have projected Ghana’s capability in the beautiful game of football.”

The statement asked the players to let the qualities that had characterized their game continue to find expression in their performance to enable them to sustain the lead chalked in their group into the other stages of the game.

“GNPC and all Ghanaians assure you of our continued support as you progress to the next stages of the tournament”, the statement added.