Former Black Stars midfielder Ahmed Barusso has urged Ghana to avoid complacency ahead of their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the fixture against Panama could define the team’s entire campaign.
Ghana begin their World Cup journey against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field in Toronto, a crucial Group L encounter that also features heavyweights England and Croatia.
Barusso, who played for Ghana at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations and previously featured for AS Roma, stressed the importance of starting the tournament strongly and making the most of early opportunities.
“It won’t be an easy task… We should try and take our chances and deliver as early as possible because it’s the first game, and I think we should get the three points,” he told Citi Sports.
He further warned that failing to secure victory in the opening match could seriously complicate Ghana’s chances of progressing from the group stage.
“It’s a must; if we don’t get the three points, then we should see that our chances of qualifying will be very difficult,” he added.
Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama in what is expected to be one of the most competitive groups of the tournament.
After facing Panama, the Black Stars will take on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before wrapping up their group stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.
With qualification on the line, Barusso believes the opener will set the tone for Ghana’s ambitions at the tournament and could prove decisive in their bid to reach the knockout stages.
