Brazil 2014: Sports Minister Calls for more prayers and focus

Ghana's Sports Minister Hon. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah has assured Ghanaians of the government's determination and commitment to qualify the Black Stars for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Finals in Brazil.

The energetic Minister who has struck an instant bond with players and officials of the Black Stars has called for an end to the childish and unnecessary negative speculations around the team ahead Ghana's crucial second leg tie against Egypt.

In recent days there has been talk of a shake up in the technical set up of the Black Stars.

According to the Minister, this is just a distraction by elements who have nothing better to do and wish to create confusion and mischief.

"There is total harmony in the team between the players and officials and any talk of technical changes now is not only premature but very naïve because no such discussions have ever taken place between the GFA and myself ''

The Minister believes that Ghanaians are too smart to fall for such divisive tactics and is glad that people are asking about the real agenda of the false reports about a foreign coach at this time.

"It is ok to talk and educate people but sheer lies and talking without facts will get us nowhere. So far, the media has been excellent in their balanced reportage but it seems a small section have their own agenda and have lost focus by creating such sensational false news''

According to him, the players know what is at stake and they are focused on the return encounter. He has therefore appealed to all and sundry to be just as focused and determined in their prayers and support for the team adding that the attitude of true professionals and tested soldiers must always be to win the war and not just battles

Hon Afriyie Ankrah says Ghana must send a strong signal to the footballing world with another brilliant performance against Egypt away from home and that is the focus now.

''We await confirmation of the second leg venue from FIFA but where ever we have to play on November 19th, we will play to win'' The Black Stars have been Africa's shinning star in the last two FIFA World Cup Finals; reaching the round of 16 at Germany 2006 then the quarter finals in 2010.

Brazil 2014 will provide another opportunity to brand Ghana great through the exploits of the Black Stars and the Minister has indicated that a powerful committee of stakeholders would be brought together to plan, prepare and execute Ghana's World Cup mission.

''I prefer to work hard and deliver results because I have to report to my boss the President who is constantly following the progress of the team. With the President's mandate we will set up a very powerful committee to market, brand Ghana and project Ghana like never before".