Football enthusiasts in Kumasi say the Black Stars’ draw against England has restored confidence in the squad, with many insisting Ghana is now ready for any challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars held England to a goalless draw in their second Group L match of the ongoing tournament at Boston Stadium in Foxborough on Wednesday.
For fans in the Ashanti Region, the result reflected the team’s growth and resilience, with many expressing satisfaction with the performance.
“People were not expecting that performance from our guys because playing against an England team that has Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and other quality players, and comparing that to Ghana, it was a tough test. But they fought hard and got the result. That was an excellent performance,” said Francis, a supporter who watched the match on KNUST campus.
“That draw has boosted our confidence as Ghanaians. I think we are seeing another batch of the Abedi Pele-era squad. The coach is very tactical. Initially, England were doing very well and it seemed Ghana would not perform, but in the second half there was different energy from the Ghana players. I hope, with the same performance, Ghana can go far,” said Ernest Arthur, a teacher at KNUST.
“Our boys did well yesterday and, God willing, they will continue to bring joy to us. We saw discipline, energy and belief against England. That’s not something we’ve seen often. If they keep this same attitude, I believe Ghana can go far at the World Cup and make all Ghanaians proud,” another fan added.
Several fans also praised head coach Carlos Queiroz for the tactical discipline he has instilled in the team, urging the Ghana Football Association to secure his services long-term.
“The coach is very tactical and he understands the players. You could see the game plan. We defended well, transitioned quickly, and didn’t panic after going down. That’s coaching. The GFA should give him a long-term contract so he can build a stable team without interference,” Isaac Gyan said.
Another supporter, Akosua Mensah from Kejetia Market, echoed the call.
“We’ve had too many short-term coaches coming and going. Carlos Queiroz knows the Black Stars players and the boys trust him. If the GFA really wants us to compete at the World Cup, they must back him with a long contract and give him time,” she said.
The stalemate marks one of Ghana’s best results against a top-ranked European side in recent years.
Ghana head into their final Group L clash against Croatia knowing qualification for the Round of 32 is firmly within their grasp.
The Black Stars have four points from their opening two matches after beating Panama 1–0 and holding England to a goalless draw. Those results have left Carlos Queiroz’s side level on points with England and one point ahead of Croatia.
Qualification Scenarios
Victory:
If Ghana defeat Croatia in Philadelphia on Saturday, they will finish with seven points and automatically qualify for the Round of 32. Depending on England’s result against Panama, they could even top Group L.
Draw:
A draw would be enough to secure qualification. Ghana would move to five points, ensuring at least second place in the group and a place in the knockout stage.
Defeat:
Even a loss would not necessarily eliminate Ghana. Under the expanded 48-team format, the best third-placed teams also qualify for the Round of 32. With four points, Ghana could still progress depending on results in other groups.
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