Otto Addo urges Black Stars to respect all opponents ahead of 2026 World Cup

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Ghana head coach Otto Addo has urged the Black Stars to approach every match in the 2026 World Cup group stage with focus, cautioning against underestimating any opponent.

The four-time African champions have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Panama, and Croatia for next summer’s tournament.

Speaking to the Ghana FA website after the draw, Addo emphasized the importance of consistency and concentration.

“I look forward to every game as special,” the 50-year-old said.
“It is very important for us that we don’t underrate any team. For sure, England is the favourite in that group, but as a coach, I’m looking at each and every game equally.”

Addo highlighted Ghana’s opening match against Panama as a crucial opportunity to gain momentum.
“I’m hoping that we have a good start against Panama — that will be very, very crucial. A strong start will make the other games a little easier psychologically. We will use the March window for test matches and then assess where we are,” he noted.

Reflecting on the team’s preparations, Addo praised their performance in the qualifiers.
“We did very well in the qualifiers. We didn’t lose a single official game — one draw and the rest wins. It was a good year in 2025 after a difficult 2024,” he said.

He also commended the unity within the squad.
“Even though we have a very young team, we did really well. There was good harmony and good union.”

Ghana will kick off their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17, face England in Boston on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

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