World Cup Preview: Ghana
Ghana arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup hoping to restore their reputation as one of Africa’s most dangerous tournament teams. The Black Stars have produced some memorable moments on the global stage, most notably their run to the quarter-finals in 2010, and they return to North America with a squad that blends experienced internationals with exciting attacking talent. While they may not be among the favourites, Ghana possess enough quality to trouble any opponent on their day.
Fixtures (UK time)
Panama, June 18, 12am
England, June 23, 9pm
Croatia, June 27, 10pm
How They Qualified
Ghana secured their place at the World Cup through the CAF qualification process,but will have been disappointed to draw against Chad and lose to Comoros. They didn’t have any problems topping the group though, finishing six points ahead of nearest challengers Madagascar. Qualification ensured Ghana would continue their strong recent record of World Cup appearances and provided another opportunity to showcase their talent on football’s biggest stage.
The Manager
Otto Addo has become a familiar figure in Ghanaian football after multiple spells in charge of the national team. The former Ghana international played in the 2006 World Cup before moving into coaching, where he built experience in Germany with clubs including Borussia Dortmund. Addo’s understanding of both European and African football has helped him build a competitive squad capable of adapting to different opponents. His calm leadership and strong connection with the players have been important factors in Ghana’s return to the World Cup.
The Star
Antoine Semenyo arrives at the World Cup as one of Ghana’s most exciting attacking talents. The forward has developed into a key player in the Premier League, earning widespread praise for his pace, power and ability to play across the front line. Equally comfortable creating chances or finishing them, Semenyo has become an increasingly influential figure for the national team. If Ghana are to spring a surprise in Group L, their dynamic forward is likely to be at the heart of it.
The Familiar Face
Jordan Ayew is one of the most recognisable members of the Ghana squad. The forward spent several years in the Premier League with Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester City, establishing himself as a hardworking and reliable performer. Ayew is also the captain of the Black Stars and one of the most experienced players in the squad, having represented Ghana at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cups. He recently equalled his brother Andre’s appearance record with 120 caps.
Did you know?
The Ayew family has become Ghanaian football royalty. Jordan Ayew’s father Abedi Pele captained Ghana and won the African Footballer of the Year award three times, while his brother Andre became a Ghana legend himself but hasn’t played for the Black Stars since 2023.
The Prediction
Round of 32
Group L looks likely to be dominated by England, but the battle for the remaining qualification places could be extremely tight. Croatia’s tournament pedigree makes them slight favourites to join the Three Lions in the top two, yet Ghana have enough quality to challenge for third place and potentially higher. With Semenyo providing attacking thrust and Ayew offering leadership, the Black Stars are capable of collecting enough points to remain in contention. The expanded format gives them a realistic route into the knockout rounds, and a place in the Round of 32 appears within reach.
