Former Black Stars striker Prince Tagoe has expressed concerns over what he sees as a lack of spiritual backing among Ghana’s senior national team, linking it to the team’s recent struggles.
In recent years, the Black Stars have faced a series of setbacks. Following consecutive group-stage eliminations at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2021 and 2023 in Cameroon and Ivory Coast, Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco—marking the first time in over two decades that the four-time African champions missed the tournament.
The team, however, rebounded to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
Speaking on Sporty FM, Tagoe raised concerns over the players’ connection with fans and their willingness to give back to the community. The former Hearts of Oak forward credited much of his generation’s success to spiritual support and a strong bond with supporters.
“As a former player, during my playing days with the Black Stars, it was not as if we were too good, but I believe we had good luck and spiritual backing for the team, and it always comes with giving out to people.
“If you play for the Black Stars and you don’t show love to the people who come to cheer you on, or you don’t care about the people who knew you while growing up, it becomes a problem. These are the same people who will be praying for the team, because sometimes we contribute and assist with charity works as well. This is what I want to see in this current team because I don’t think this current team does that.”
He added that many current players have earned a reputation for being distant from fans, in contrast to past stars like Stephen Appiah, who fostered strong connections with supporters.
“We are all in Ghana, and most of these players playing for the Black Stars have been described as stingy players, and that is the fact. People might not say that in public, but during our time, people used to come around the team because of Stephen Appiah. We, the players, must ensure that we express our appreciation because these are the same people who will support the team. This is something the team must look at.
“Sometimes, it is not about how good you are, but you will need to have luck and spiritual backing,” he added.
Ghana, making their fifth World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, and conclude group play against Croatia on June 27.
After consecutive group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 tournaments in Brazil and Qatar, Ghana will be based at Bryant University in the United States as they aim for a stronger showing on football’s biggest stage.
