Black Stars’ World Cup Budget Hits $1.12m

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has confirmed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has submitted a budget of $1.12 million to fund the Black Stars’ qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in October.

The estimates were officially presented on September 18, 2025, and later sent to the Office of the President for approval. The budget will cover two important fixtures: Ghana’s away game against the Central African Republic (CAR) in Casablanca on October 8, and the home match against Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on October 12.

According to Sports Minister Kofi Adams, who spoke at a media briefing in Accra, the budget was carefully prepared and forwarded without delay.

“There has been no deviation. The players are our priority, and we have treated them with respect and professionalism,” he said, dismissing claims of political interference or slow processes.

The financial plan sets aside $733,000 for the away fixture against CAR. This amount covers player and staff travel, chartered flights, accommodation, training logistics, officiating fees, per diems, and bonuses. The remaining $387,000 is reserved for the Accra leg against Comoros, which will pay for accommodation, allowances, officials’ indemnities, and hosting arrangements for the visiting team.

The ministry explained that the proposal was consistent with fiscal benchmarks and expenditure guidelines agreed upon with the GFA. It also assured the public that the process has not affected player entitlements. “The players are our priority,” the minister stressed, adding that government will continue to provide full support for the national team.

At the same time, the ministry called on all stakeholders—administrators, coaches, and players—to live up to their responsibilities. It urged them to build a culture of discipline and performance that would help the Black Stars succeed in the qualification campaign. Adams praised the GFA for its cooperation and promised that the government would ensure accountability, transparency, and discipline in the use of resources.

The two matches are crucial for Ghana’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars need at least four points from the games to keep their qualification dreams alive. First, they will battle the Central African Republic in Casablanca before returning home to face Comoros in front of their home fans in Accra.