Black Stars high-performance coach John Paintsil has expressed confidence that Ghana can defeat the England national football team when the two sides meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana are set to face England in their second Group L match at the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking to 3Sports, Paintsil described the fixture as one that could resemble a “local derby” due to the number of Ghanaian players who currently play in England.
“It will feel like a local derby because many Ghanaian players are based in England and know the environment well,” the former Black Stars defender, who played at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, said. “But I believe Ghana can beat England if we meet.”
Despite his optimism for the clash with England, Paintsil warned that the Croatia national football team will also pose a significant challenge in the group.
“Croatia are a very strong team with quality and experience, so we must not take them lightly,” he said.
Paintsil also praised the leadership of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, describing him as a disciplined figure capable of guiding the team in the right direction.
“Otto Addo is a good leader and a disciplinarian. We should support him and the team as they prepare for the World Cup,” Paintsil added.
Ghana, making their fifth appearance at the World Cup, will open their campaign against the Panama national football team on June 17, before facing England on June 23. They will conclude the group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
As part of their preparations, the Black Stars are expected to hold a training camp in March featuring friendly matches against Austria national football team and Germany national football team. Additional warm-up games are planned against Mexico national football team in May and Wales national football team on June 2.
After group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, the Black Stars will be aiming to make a stronger impression in North America.
