Veteran journalist, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has praised Ghana’s Black Stars for their performance at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, while raising concerns about what he described as unfair conditions affecting some participating nations.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme with Moro Awudu, the former Managing News Editor of The Insight newspaper said the Black Stars had shown they were capable of competing at the highest level and deserved the support of all Ghanaians.
“The Black Stars have shown that they have something to offer and they deserve the support of everybody in Ghana and beyond,” he said.
Pratt argued that visa restrictions imposed on supporters and officials from some countries had undermined the spirit of fairness expected at the World Cup. He claimed that decisions affecting travel arrangements, visa approvals and access to matches had created disadvantages for certain teams.
According to him, football matches are influenced not only by events on the pitch but also by support from fans in the stands. He said countries whose supporters faced difficulties obtaining visas were being placed at a disadvantage compared with teams whose fans were able to travel freely.
Pratt also questioned FIFA’s position on visa matters, saying host nations should ensure that supporters are able to attend matches after committing to stage the tournament.
He further expressed concern about the treatment of some teams and officials, arguing that football should promote friendship, peace and solidarity among nations.
Despite his criticisms, Pratt urged Ghanaians to focus on supporting the national team and advocating for reforms within football administration rather than engaging in conflict with other countries.
He also renewed calls for greater accountability in football governance, arguing that because public funds contribute to the running of the sport, citizens should have a voice in how football is administered.
Pratt said the World Cup should serve as an opportunity to debate how football can better promote national interests and strengthen Ghana’s image internationally.
Reflecting on Ghana’s football history, he pointed to the era of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, as a period when football was used as a diplomatic tool to project the country and Africa onto the global stage.
He said Ghana could benefit from returning to that vision, where football serves not only as a sport but also as a vehicle for national development and international recognition.
