Former Black Stars striker Augustine Arhinful has expressed confidence that Ghana can go toe-to-toe with England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside England, Panama, and Croatia.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Arhinful said he had wished for a clash with the Three Lions even before the draw was made.
“Before the draw was conducted, I granted an interview, and I said I wanted Ghana to meet England,” he said.
“I was even speaking to the UK High Commissioner and told him I wanted us to meet England. He said no, because if they lose to us, his people won’t be happy,” the former Ashgold forward added.
Despite England’s strength, Arhinful remains optimistic that Ghana has what it takes to cause an upset.
“It’s football. I’ve always felt we can match the English team boot-for-boot. At the end of the day, if you prepare well, your strategy works and a little luck comes your way, you can win any game,” he stated.
Ghana will begin its World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, face England on June 23 in Boston, and wrap up the group stage against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
The 2026 edition marks Ghana’s fifth appearance at the World Cup, following campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022. The Black Stars’ best performance came in 2010 when they reached the quarterfinals.
After their early exit in Qatar, the team is determined to make a stronger impact in North America.
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