Dambai (O/R), June 19, GNA – The Black Stars’ 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group G match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has sparked increased demand for national team jerseys in Krachi East, leading to temporary stock shortages.
Prestige Printing Press, a leading supplier of Black Stars jerseys and branded sports merchandise in Dambai, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that demand for national team apparel had surged following Ghana’s stoppage-time victory over Panama in Toronto, Canada.
The company attributed the increase in purchases to growing public confidence in the Black Stars and renewed enthusiasm among football supporters as Ghana advances in the tournament.
Mr Mathew Binchaya Nwonbi of Prestige Printing Press said the company had recorded an unprecedented rise in customer enquiries and purchases within days of the victory.
“The Black Stars’ win has generated considerable excitement among supporters. Many residents want to show their support by purchasing jerseys and other branded items in the national colours. Demand has exceeded our immediate stock levels, but efforts are underway to replenish supplies as quickly as possible,” he said.
He added that although some outlets had experienced shortages of certain jersey sizes and designs, arrangements had been made with suppliers to ensure adequate stock ahead of Ghana’s next Group G match against England.
A GNA visit to selected commercial centres in Dambai revealed heightened interest in Black Stars merchandise, with traders reporting brisk sales and increasing enquiries for jerseys, scarves, wristbands and other football-related accessories.
Madam Adwoa Nyarko, a retailer in the municipality, said the team’s performance had positively affected business activity.
“People are optimistic about the team’s prospects in the competition. Since the victory, many customers have purchased jerseys for themselves and their families. The demand is encouraging local businesses,” she said.
Residents who spoke to GNA described the victory as a source of national pride and inspiration, noting that football continued to foster social cohesion and strengthen community identity.
Mr Emmanuel Tetteh, a football enthusiast in Dambai, said the World Cup excitement had united residents from diverse backgrounds behind a common national cause.
“The Black Stars represent the aspirations of the country. Their success brings people together and creates a sense of belonging and patriotism,” he said.
Municipal officials observed that major international sporting competitions often generate positive social and economic benefits by promoting youth participation in sports, stimulating business activity, and encouraging community engagement.
They noted that the increased patronage of Black Stars merchandise highlighted the role of sports in national development, social integration and economic empowerment, particularly for small-scale enterprises.
Sports analysts have also suggested that continued success by the Black Stars could boost interest in football development progrmmes and encourage greater investment in grassroots sports initiatives across the country.
As Ghana prepares for a crucial Group G encounter against England, traders and suppliers remain optimistic that public enthusiasm will continue to support local businesses and encourage broader community participation in football-related activities.
The Black Stars are expected to continue their campaign with strong backing from supporters nationwide, many of whom view the team’s performance as a symbol of national unity and pride.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu