Former President John Dramani Mahama has pledged his support for the Black Stars as they prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad on March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

During a visit to the team’s training session on Wednesday, Mahama expressed his commitment to watching the game despite admitting that live football makes him anxious.

"I will take time off and watch the game myself. Even though my heart is not very good at watching soccer, I will brave it [to watch you on Friday]," he told the players.

The Black Stars are under pressure to deliver after a disappointing AFCON 2025 qualification campaign, where they failed to win any of their six matches. With expectations high, Mahama humorously shared advice he had received on how to manage the tension.

"They said I should eat before I go and sit down, and my hope is that you'll justify my sitting and watching you guys," he joked, drawing laughter from the team.

Despite recent struggles, Mahama encouraged the squad to give their best, assuring them of the nation's full support.

"The whole of Ghana is going to be behind you, and I am sure you're going to make us proud," he stated.

Following the match against Chad, the Black Stars will travel to Morocco to face Madagascar on March 24, as they continue their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.