SOCCER: Ghana, Panama fans throng Toronto streets ahead of World Cup clash

Boisterous fans from Ghana and Panama marched toward the Toronto stadium on Tuesday, bringing color, music, and national pride to the World Cup Group L clash despite high ticket prices and gloomy weather. Supporters wore traditional attire, waved flags, and turned the pre-match atmosphere into a lively celebration outside the venue.

Wearing an ornate bead-and-feather headdress, Ghana supporter Wisdom Atakuma said he was thrilled to finally fulfill his dream of watching his national team play in person. “No African country has won it before and I pray that maybe God will bring it to Ghana,” he said, holding a poster that jokingly referenced Ghanaian President John Mahama over reported promises of free tickets.

Another supporter, Ahosua Addowaa, said the inability to afford tickets would not stop her from showing support for the team. “I will just stand outside the stadium and support. Look at us, we are here,” she said.

Panama fan Ramon Diaz, who has lived in Canada for four years, said he expected to be overwhelmed with emotion when Panama’s anthem is played. “Historic day. I don’t think I have ever seen this many Panamanians outside of Panama,” he said.

On the pitch, Ghana will be led in attack by Antoine Semenyo, while Panama midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla is expected to start on the bench. The match is part of a competitive Group L lineup that also includes England and Croatia. -Reporting by Bhargav Acharya in Toronto, editing by Ed Osmond/Reuters