Kurt Okraku has acknowledged growing concerns over injuries to key players ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup but remains confident in the resilience of the Ghana national team.
Several important figures, including Mohammed Kudus, Mohammed Salisu and Abu Francis, are currently sidelined with injuries, raising fears over their availability for the tournament in North America.
Speaking during the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Okraku admitted the situation is worrying but stressed his belief in Ghana’s fighting spirit.
He noted that while the injury list is a concern, the team can draw strength from the nation’s unity and determination, especially following the arrival of head coach Carlos Queiroz, which he believes has brought renewed energy and belief.
“I know we have some challenges with injuries to key players,” he told Footie Centre.
“When I look at the list, it’s quite worrying, but I derive my positivity from the fact that there is something in the Ghanaian; the indomitable spirit of the Ghanaian will always come up when the chips are so low, and I would want to believe that, with the unity of purpose that has been demonstrated by the entire nation as a result of the arrival of coach Carlos Queiroz, it would arouse extra energy in the Ghanaian player, to the 12th man, and we will find the right level of energy to be competitive,” he added.
Ghana have been drawn in a challenging Group I alongside Panama national team, England national team and Croatia national team. The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
As part of their preparations, the team will play international friendlies against Mexico national team and Wales national team, offering an opportunity to assess readiness ahead of the tournament.
Coach Queiroz is expected to name his final squad on June 1, with hopes that key players will recover in time to boost Ghana’s chances on the world stage.
