Former Ghana Football Association president Kwesi Nyantakyi believes the Black Stars still have what it takes to make a strong impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite concerns surrounding the team’s recent performances.
Ghana heads into the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico under intense scrutiny after struggling in recent friendly matches. However, Nyantakyi says the Black Stars have a history of exceeding expectations whenever confidence in the team is low.
“As I told somebody yesterday, never write off any Ghana team,” the former CAF first vice president told the Daily Graphic.
“The time that you have little faith in them is when they spring surprises. Let us rally behind them, and I think they can do well,” Mr Nyantakyi added.
The Black Stars, four-time African champions, are preparing for their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup and have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. Their final group match will be against Croatia on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field.
The team is currently camped in Cardiff ahead of an international friendly against Wales on June 2 as preparations intensify for the Mundial.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz has already announced a provisional 28-man squad, with the final team expected to be confirmed on June 1.
The Black Stars will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after suffering early exits in both the 2014 and 2022 editions.
