Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku remains optimistic about the Black Stars’ prospects at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the four-time African champions should not be underestimated on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking during an appearance on the Delay Show, Okraku expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to compete against the world’s elite, stressing that international football has repeatedly shown that reputations alone do not determine success.
The GFA boss pointed to numerous examples throughout football history where highly fancied teams have failed to deliver, while less-fancied sides have exceeded expectations and gone on to achieve remarkable results.
“I have seen bad teams win big tournaments, I have also seen good teams lose big tournaments, and I have seen good teams win big tournaments. So, you can never rule out any football nation, Ghana inclusive. We have a good team, and I want to win the World Cup. That is why we are doing everything possible,” Kurt Okraku said.
Okraku’s comments come as Ghana intensifies preparations for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
๐ช๐พ Stronger together! ๐ฌ๐ญ#BlackStars | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/x3q2Y7ZZCp
โ ๐ฌ๐ญ Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 5, 2026
The Black Stars face a demanding task in Group L, having been paired with England, Croatia, and Panama. The group presents a stern test for the West Africans, who will be aiming to progress beyond the first round and make a significant impact at the competition.
Despite the challenges posed by their opponents, belief remains strong within Ghanaian football circles that the current squad possesses the talent and character to compete at the highest level.
With anticipation building ahead of the tournament, Okraku has made it clear that Ghana’s ambitions extend beyond merely participating, with the ultimate goal being to challenge for football’s most coveted prize.
