Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President, George Afriyie, has expressed confidence that the Black Stars could pull off a surprise at the 2026 World Cup—provided their preparation is thorough.
The four-time African champions will make their fifth World Cup appearance when the tournament kicks off this summer, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Ghana has been drawn into Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.
Speaking to Graphic Sports, Afriyie said he expects Ghana to secure a win in their opener against Panama, but warned that the team must be mentally and psychologically ready to challenge England.
“I don’t see it as an easy game for us, but if we get our rhythm right, everything is well in camp, the team is well prepared physically, psychologically and motivationally, and the boys are in the right frame of mind when they step onto the pitch, they can cause an upset against England,” he said.
As part of their build-up, the Black Stars will face Austria and Germany later this month, before matches against Mexico in May and Wales on June 2.
Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17, clash with England on June 23, and finish the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
After group-stage exits in both 2014 and 2022, the Black Stars are determined to deliver a stronger, more competitive performance on North American soil.
