Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sa has emphasized that Ghana’s technical team is prioritizing proper player positioning as the squad prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Ghana will be making their fifth appearance at the global tournament this summer, with the team aiming to improve on their previous group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.
With preparations entering a crucial stage, the South African tactician explained that the focus is not on changing the entire playing philosophy but on getting the best out of the current squad by placing players in roles that suit their strengths.
“We are not going to teach them how to play. We have the players,” De Sa said on the Beyond The Whistle podcast.
“We just need to position them correctly, ensure they are in the right mindset, and when they wear the jersey, they must deliver,” he added.
His comments reflect a clear emphasis on tactical organisation and role clarity, especially as Ghana looks to compete effectively against strong opposition at the tournament.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. Their campaign will begin on June 17 against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto, followed by a high-profile clash with England on June 23 in Boston, before wrapping up the group stage against Croatia on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Ahead of the World Cup, Ghana will step up preparations with international friendlies against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2, which will serve as key opportunities for the coaching staff to finalise their tactical plans and player roles.
With expectations building back home, De Sa’s message underlines a simple but crucial approach: success at the World Cup will depend not only on talent, but on structure, discipline, and players executing their responsibilities effectively on the pitch.
