Ghanaian Australians Invite Nation to World Cup Watch Party
Sydney's Ghanaian community is throwing open its doors for Ghana's World Cup opener against Panama, complete with traditional drums, call-and-response chants, and infectious energy. All of Australia is invited to join the celebration at 9am Thursday.
📺 Watch the full story above
When Ghana's Black Stars take the field Thursday morning, a Sydney restaurant will transform into a joyful celebration of community, sport, and West African culture that everyone's invited to join.
Yaw Derkyi, organizing secretary of the Ghana Association of NSW, is preparing drums and leading his community in a watch party for Ghana's opening match against Panama at 9am AEST. He's extending an open invitation to all Australians, with one friendly warning: prepare for serious vibes.
"We're gonna chant, like a call and response. It's a spirit chant; it gives the vibes, it moves the whole," Derkyi told SBS News about the planned celebration at ALEX&Co. Restaurant & Bar in Parramatta.
The excitement is palpable across the Ghanaian Australian community. "The whole community is sweating at the moment," Derkyi said with a laugh, despite Sydney's winter chill.
Ghana enters the tournament ranked 73rd in FIFA rankings after struggling to qualify for last year's Africa Cup of Nations. But the Black Stars topped their World Cup qualifying group and are bringing fresh determination to the expanded 48-team tournament.
"This year we are coming in full attack, this year we are here to shock the world," Derkyi said confidently. "We are taking the cup home to make coffee, tea, Milo, everything in that cup. Because soccer is our food, man."
The team faces challenges with star midfielder Mohammed Kudus out injured and Thomas Partey unable to secure a Canadian visa for the Toronto match. But Manchester City's Antoine Semenyo brings momentum after scoring 11 goals this season, including the FA Cup final winner against Chelsea.
The Ripple Effect
The 2026 World Cup's expansion from 32 to 48 teams means more diaspora communities across Australia can participate and celebrate their heritage. Ghanaian Australians have a strong track record of turning up for their players, and this open invitation shows how sport can build bridges between cultures.
Derkyi will be there with his drums, ready to lead the chants and share Ghanaian football culture with anyone curious enough to show up on a Thursday morning.
More Images
Based on reporting by SBS Australia
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity!
Share this good news with someone who needs it
