Black Stars skipper Jordan Ayew says they will approach the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the ambition of competing strongly and making the country proud.
The tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will mark Ghana’s return to football’s biggest stage as the Black Stars seek to improve on their recent performances at the global showpiece.
Ayew stressed that the four-time African champions are heading to the competition with the intention of making a real impact rather than merely participating.
“We are going to the World Cup to give our very best. We want to put on a show and, hopefully, achieve the results we are aiming for. We are not just going to the USA to make up the numbers,” he told Adom TV’s Fire-for-Fire.
The captain also highlighted the need for unity and belief within the squad as preparations continue.
“We will stay humble and focused, and hopefully we can dream of achieving big things. We need positive energy around the team, and we will do everything we can to make the nation proud.”
Ghana will be aiming to rekindle memories of their historic run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals, as they prepare to compete in the expanded 2026 edition.
The Black Stars, who will be making their fifth appearance at the Mundial, have been drawn in Group L. They will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, before concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
As part of their preparations, Ghana are scheduled to play friendly matches against Germany and Austria later this month. They will also face Mexico in May before taking on Wales in June, nine days ahead of the start of the tournament.
During the competition, the Ghana squad will be based at Bryant University in the United States.
After suffering group-stage exits at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Black Stars will be hoping to produce a stronger showing when the tournament kicks off in North America.
