Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has urged composure and collective responsibility within the squad ahead of Ghana’s high-stakes World Cup meeting with England at Gillette Stadium.
The four-time African champions head into their second Group L fixture with momentum after opening their 2026 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Panama, while England also arrive in strong form following a 4-2 win against Croatia. Both sides are level on points and pushing for early qualification to the round of 32.
Ayew said his focus as skipper is to protect younger teammates from pressure while ensuring standards remain high across the squad.
“I’m doing my best to guide the boys and to make them feel as comfortable as they can. To take the pressure off them and to do my best for us to perform on the pitch,” Ayew said.
“That’s all I do. I’m being myself, and I have to perform as well. They have to perform as well. It’s teamwork. We’re helping each other to perform,” Ayew added.
Ghana currently sit second in the group standings after their narrow opening win in Toronto, setting up a pivotal clash in Foxborough against an England side widely expected to challenge deep into the tournament.
Ayew stressed the need for discipline and collective effort, outlining a simple message within the camp.
“That we’re going to give our 100% and that we’re going to fight,” he said.
“I will make sure when we come out of this game, we’ll have no regrets,” he concluded.
Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT, with Ghana eyeing a result that could significantly strengthen their position in Group L ahead of their final group-stage match in Philadelphia on June 27.
A positive outcome would also edge the Black Stars closer to a long-awaited return to the knockout stages, a feat last achieved in 2010.
