As the 2026 FIFA World Cup edges closer, former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has sounded both an optimistic and cautionary note regarding the Black Stars’ prospects in North America.
Kingston, reflecting on Ghana’s preparations under coach Otto Addo, expressed hope tempered with realism about the team’s chances in what promises to be a demanding tournament.
“For me, I don’t really expect anything more than for us to go through the group stage. I’ll be happy for us to go through the group stage,” he said. He cited the squad’s continuity as a source of confidence, noting, “Otto Addo has been with these players for some time, and I am told that they now understand themselves.”
Despite this optimism, Kingston highlighted a significant hurdle: injuries to key squad members.
“My worry is that some of the players have picked up injuries,” he admitted, pointing out that the availability of Ghana’s top talents could shape their campaign. “If Otto Addo gets these trusted players fit, then we can do something.”
2026 World Cup setback: Laryea Kingston laments Salisu injury blow to Ghana
The Black Stars’ injury list includes crucial first-team players such as West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, Southampton’s Mohammed Salisu, Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey, and defenders Francis Abu and Abdul Mumin, all pivotal figures in Addo’s tactical plans.
Ghana, drawn in the challenging Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, will aim to navigate the group stage for the first time since 2010. Their campaign kicks off against Panama in Toronto on June 17, followed by matches against England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia.
With the tournament approaching, the Black Stars’ fitness levels and ability to integrate their key players into Addo’s system may prove just as decisive as their tactical setup. Kingston’s warnings underline that managing injuries could be the difference between an early exit and a historic run in North America.
