Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Fred Pappoe, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to deliver a strong performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite recent setbacks.
Ghana endured a difficult March international window, suffering consecutive defeats to Austria and Germany—results that have seen the team slip to 74th in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola rankings.
The drop leaves the Black Stars among the lower-ranked sides heading into the global showpiece.
However, speaking to Citi Sports, Pappoe struck an optimistic tone, insisting the team has the quality to recover and compete effectively on the biggest stage.
“I think we’ll do well. I’m sure this is just a spot on the way. I’m sure we’ll get over it, get a new coach in place,” he said.
Pappoe emphasized the importance of mentality and technical direction, noting that Ghana possesses a talented pool of players capable of rising to the occasion.
“Once we have the players with the right calibre of mind, the right mentality and the right approach, I’m not one who looks down on my team. I’m very hopeful with the array of players we have. I do not have an idea as to what is going to be the final 26.
“But at the end of the day, if you’re looking at who could possibly be in the 26, it gives me comfort. I don’t think our team is necessarily bad. I do not subscribe to that,” Pappoe added.
The recent poor results prompted the Ghana Football Association to part ways with head coach Otto Addo, with a replacement expected to be appointed ahead of the tournament.
The Black Stars are scheduled to regroup in May for a friendly against Mexico, before concluding their preparations with another test against Wales on June 2.
Ghana will be making their fifth World Cup appearance at the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Drawn in Group L, the Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
