Some fans at Keta in the Volta Region have expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite being drawn into a tough Group with England, Croatia, and Panama.
Fans believed that the team has the talent, potential and experience to perform beyond expectations.
Mr Leonado Kwakutsey Fogbey, a football analyst, told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the Black Stars’ squad was among the most talented in Africa with a mix of youthful energy and seasoned campaigners.
“Coach Otto Addo’s experience in the World Cup is seen as a plus, myself and some other fans believed that his tactical acumen will be crucial in navigating the tough group stages to the next,” he said.
He, however, noted that not everyone was convinced about the previous performance of the coach, especially after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Mr Fogbey, who is also a strong Black Stars fan, said that England, Croatia, and Panama would present a challenge, but remained convinced that the team’s past successes, including their quarterfinal run in 2010, was a clear evidence that they could make a deep run in the 2026 tournament.
“The Black Stars will need to be at their best to overcome the likes of England and Croatia, who are both European heavyweights with a wealth of World Cup experience. Panama will be looking to cause an upset and claim a vital three points, but l believe the boys.”
Mr Benjamin Mensah, another fan, explained that Ghana’s group stage matches were expected to play two matches in the United States and one in Canada, with the tournament set to feature 48 teams for the first time and the expanded format would give Black Stars the chance to make a statement and prove themselves on the global stage.
He said that the Black Stars would face England, Croatia, and Panama in Group L, with the top two teams and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the knockout stage and Ghana would need to be strong and consistent to make it out of the group.
Others were of the hope that the Black Stars have a challenging road ahead to advance to the knockout stage.
They said the match against Panama would be crucial and a positive result against either England or Croatia would significantly boost the Black Stars position.
Other important factors include solid defensive organisation, rapid transitions, and clinical finishing in front of goal are needed for the youthful energy and pace could to unsettle opponents and make them a formidable team.
Ghana Black Stars would be participating in their fifth World Cup after picking spots in previous tournaments in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2022.
The FIFA World Cup would be hosted by three countries USA, Canada and Mexico and is expected to commence on June 11 to July 19, 2026.
GNA
