The Black Stars arrived in Philadelphia on Thursday evening ahead of Saturday’s decisive FIFA World Cup Group L clash against Croatia, with a place in the Round of 32 at stake.
Carlos Queiroz’s side travelled from Providence, Rhode Island, after concluding their preparations at Bryant University, where the squad held a recovery session on Wednesday following Tuesday’s goalless draw with England at Gillette Stadium.
The team checked into its hotel in Philadelphia later on Thursday and will hold one final training session on Friday before turning its attention to the must-win encounter at Lincoln Financial Field.
Ghana head into the final round of Group L fixtures in a strong position after collecting four points from their opening two matches. The Black Stars opened the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Panama before earning an impressive 0-0 draw against England.
Victory over Croatia would guarantee Ghana a place in the knockout stage for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
The squad travelled to Philadelphia in high spirits following a morale-boosting visit from a high-powered Ghanaian government delegation earlier on Thursday.
The delegation, led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, included Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and businessman Ibrahim Mahama.
The officials congratulated the players on their performances so far and delivered messages of encouragement from President John Dramani Mahama ahead of the decisive fixture.
Several members of the delegation expressed confidence that the Black Stars would overcome Croatia and continue their World Cup journey, while Ibrahim Mahama also promised the players a special bonus if they secure qualification.
Meanwhile, England will take on Panama in the other Group L fixture, with both matches kicking off simultaneously.
All eyes will be on Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday as Ghana bids to secure its place in the Round of 32 and continue its impressive campaign under Carlos Queiroz.
Discussion about this post