“If you can’t sing the national anthem, you can’t be in the team” — President Mahama tells Black Stars players

Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed shock over the inability of most Black Stars players to proudly sing the national anthem during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to him, players should demonstrate patriotism by singing the anthem on such occasions, as was exhibited by players from other countries.

The President shared this sentiment while reflecting on Ghana’s performance at the World Cup, where the Black Stars were knocked out in the round of 32 by Colombia.

Mahama expressed disappointment that several Ghanaian players remained silent during the anthem.

“During the World Cup, our players did not sing the national anthem. All the other players sang their national anthems with pride. Ours were quiet. It should be a qualification for playing for the national team. If you cannot sing the anthem, you cannot be on the team,” Mahama said.

The President’s remarks, which drew laughter from those gathered, were made in a light-hearted manner. He nonetheless stressed the need to exhibit great pride while representing Ghana on the global stage.

The President’s comments have sparked considerable conversation among Ghanaians, with some supporting the sentiment and others disagreeing, even though the statement was made in jest.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which are expected to commence later this year.