Assistant coach of Ghana’s national team, John Paintsil, has spoken about the enormous expectations surrounding the Ghana national football team as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The four-time African champions are heading into their fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament, determined to make a strong impression after missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, their first absence from the continental competition in more than two decades.
Despite that disappointment, qualification for the upcoming World Cup has revived belief among supporters that the team can deliver a memorable campaign on the global stage.
Paintsil reflected on Ghana’s previous outings at the tournament, acknowledging the challenges faced in recent editions. The Black Stars were eliminated in the group stage at both the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
2026 World Cup. Ghanaians urged to lower expectations for Black Stars – Afriyie
However, he believes the experience gained over the years gives the team a solid foundation to compete more effectively this time.
“When it comes to the World Cup, Ghana is now experienced. We have been to the round of 16 in 2006 and the quarter-finals in 2010,” the former Fulham FC and West Ham United FC defender told 3Sports.
“Coming into this World Cup, the expectation is very high. I can’t wait to see how things will go on our side.”
Paintsil, who was part of Ghana’s squad at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, also underlined the importance of having players in peak physical condition ahead of the tournament:
“Like I keep saying, I want all our players to be fit, so they’ll be ready for the call-up.”
Ghana have been placed in Group L, where they will begin their campaign against Panama national football team on June 17.
Ghana line up Mexico test as World Cup countdown intensifies
They will then face England national football team on June 23 before wrapping up their group-stage fixtures against Croatia national football team on June 27.
As part of their build-up to the tournament, the Black Stars are scheduled to regroup in March for a series of international friendlies, including matches against the Austria national football team and the Germany national football team. Another preparatory clash against the Mexico national football team will follow before the World Cup gets underway.
