By Nana Yaw Prekoh

Copyright ghanaguardian

Government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has earmarked over $1.12 million to support the Black Stars’ participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, pending final approval from the Presidency.

The move comes at a crucial time as the national team prepares for two critical fixtures in October — an away clash against the Central African Republic on October 8 and a home encounter with Comoros on October 12.

These games are expected to determine Ghana’s qualification prospects, with the Black Stars needing at least four points to progress in the qualifiers.

Budget Breakdown

The proposed budget, submitted by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to the Ministry of Sports on September 18, 2025, outlines detailed allocations to ensure smooth preparations.

Of the total sum, $733,000 has been dedicated to the away trip to Casablanca, Morocco, where Ghana will face the Central African Republic.

Another $387,000 is earmarked for the home fixture in Accra against Comoros.

Expenses covered in the budget include travel arrangements, accommodation, per diems, training facilities, officiating fees, match bonuses, and support services.

The Sports Minister Kofi Adams stressed that the estimates were carefully prepared in line with fiscal benchmarks to avoid overspending.

“The players remain our priority, and we have treated them with respect and professionalism. There has been no interference with their entitlements,” Adams assured.

Approval Process

According to the Ministry, the budget was submitted to the Office of the President on September 19, 2025, just a day after the GFA presented its request.

Government approval is expected in the coming days to allow for the release of funds ahead of the October fixtures.

Ghana has a proud history in the FIFA World Cup, having first qualified in 2006, when the team reached the Round of 16 in Germany.

The Black Stars went further in 2010, making history by reaching the quarter-finals in South Africa — the furthest any African team has advanced at the time.

However, Ghana has since faced challenges, including a disappointing campaign in 2014 marred by player strikes over unpaid bonuses, and a group-stage exit in 2022 in Qatar.

The Presidency’s decision in the coming days will determine whether the Black Stars get the financial backing needed to secure qualification and restore the team’s glory on the world stage.