Accra, June 10, GNA - President John Evans Atta Mills left Accra Wednesday night for South Africa.

President Mills is expected to join his colleague Jacob Zumah, South African President and other dignitaries from the world for the opening ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament. At a pre-departure interview with journalists at the Kotoka International Airport, President Mills said although Ghana might be perceived as underdogs by some, the Black Stars stood a good chance at winning the cup if they stayed focused with the support of the country behind them.

He said he would support the Black Stars with his physical presence for at least their first match.

President Mills also said he would meet with the players and the team's management in South Africa adding that he would encourage them in order for them to have enough zeal and vigor to win the cup. Ghana plays its first match on June 13, 2010 with Serbia. The opening match of the tournament will be between host nation South Africa and Mexico on Friday June 11, 2010.

At the Airport to see off President Mills were the Vice President, John Dramani Mahama, Ministers of state and senior Military and Police personnel.