Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sa believes Ghana have the quality and experience to move beyond the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, provided the squad rises to the occasion and delivers consistently on the pitch.
The four-time African champions are preparing for their fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. After failing to progress from the group phase in both 2014 and 2022, expectations are mounting for a more competitive campaign this time around.
Speaking during an appearance on the Beyond The Whistle podcast, the experienced South African coach expressed confidence in the team’s potential, highlighting the importance of discipline, focus and strong leadership under head coach Carlos Queiroz.
“We are here to do our best and make Ghanaians happy. If Carlos does his job, there is none better than him,” he said. “We will pick our targets as they come. If our players play to their abilities, we have a realistic chance to progress.”
Ghana face a demanding challenge in Group L, where they have been paired with England, Croatia and Panama in what promises to be one of the more competitive groups of the tournament.
🎙️ Exclusive interview with #BlackStars Assistant Coach Roger De Sá. 🎞️
Join us tonight at 9:00 PM on the @ghanafaofficial YouTube and Facebook pages. pic.twitter.com/sRBDJYLlb9
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) May 18, 2026
The Black Stars will begin their World Cup journey against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17 before a heavyweight clash against England in Boston six days later. Their final group fixture will come against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
As part of their build-up to the tournament, Ghana are scheduled to test themselves in friendly matches against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2, giving the technical team a final opportunity to fine-tune preparations ahead of the global showpiece.
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Coach Queiroz is expected to unveil his final squad on June 1 as Ghana intensify preparations for the tournament.
