Jordan Ayew to Become Ghana’s Oldest Player at 2026 World Cup
· YEN.com.gh News · Join- Jordan Ayew will etch his name into Ghanaian football history as the Black Stars booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- The 33-year-old forward has been Ghana’s driving force throughout the qualifiers, leading the team in goal contributions
- A decisive second-half strike from Mohammed Kudus sealed a hard-fought victory over Comoros, confirming Ghana’s spot at next year’s global showpiece
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Jordan Ayew is set to make history as Ghana’s oldest player to feature in a FIFA World Cup when he takes to the field at the 2026 tournament.
The Black Stars sealed their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in Accra, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Mohammed Kudus early in the second half.
Source: Twitter
After a tense and goalless first half where both teams struggled to create clear chances, the Black Stars returned from the break with renewed energy and intent.
Just three minutes into the second period, Thomas Partey threaded a clever pass through to Kudus, who connected beautifully and poked home.
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Comoros put up a spirited fight and managed to prevent Ghana from adding to their lead, but they rarely threatened the hosts’ defence.
The Black Stars managed the game confidently in the final stages, securing a crucial three points and confirming their place at next year’s tournament.
According to FIFA, this qualification marks Ghana’s fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, cementing their status as one of Africa’s most consistent performers on the global stage.
Ayew to become Ghana’s oldest World Cup player
For Jordan Ayew, it represents a personal milestone as well. Born on September 11, 1991, the Leicester City forward will be 34 years and 10 months old during the 2026 World Cup, just two months shy of his 35th birthday.
This achievement will see him surpass Denis Odoi’s record, who was 34 years and 7 months old when he featured for Ghana at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, per Ghanasoccernet.
The 2026 edition will also mark Ayew’s third World Cup appearance, having previously represented Ghana in 2014 and 2022.
Source: Twitter
By doing so, he will join an elite group of Ghanaian players to have appeared at three World Cups, a list that includes Sulley Muntari, Asamoah Gyan, and his brother André Ayew.
As one of the most experienced members of the current Black Stars squad, Jordan Ayew’s leadership and consistency will be crucial as Ghana aim to make a strong impact in the expanded tournament.
His longevity, professionalism, and dedication continue to embody the spirit of Ghanaian football, inspiring fans and younger players alike.
Check out Ayew's stats in the World Cup qualifiers:
Prince Tagoe hails Jordan Ayew’s leadership
Former Ghana striker Prince Tagoe has heaped praise on Jordan Ayew, describing him as the exemplary leader the Black Stars needed.
Tagoe admitted he has been pleasantly surprised by Ayew’s transformation and calm leadership both on and off the pitch.
“Honestly, I never thought Jordan could become such a great captain,” Tagoe told YEN.com.gh.
“He’s no drama, very composed with the media, and always puts the team first. His maturity and focus have really surprised me, he’s leading by example in every sense.”
Beyond his on-field contributions, Ayew achieved a historic milestone by becoming the second Ayew to captain Ghana to a World Cup, following in the footsteps of his elder brother Andre, who led the Black Stars in 2022.
Interestingly, their father Abedi Ayew, a three-time African Footballer of the Year, never captained Ghana to a World Cup despite his illustrious career.
By reaching this landmark, Jordan joins a distinguished group of Ghanaian footballers whose influence extends beyond statistics, embodying determination, ambition, and the spirit of a generation aiming to leave a mark on football’s biggest stage.
As Ghana sets its sights on the 2026 World Cup, the Leicester City striker is expected to continue leading both on and off the pitch, inspiring teammates and fans alike.
Jordan Ayew eyes history with Ghana
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh noted that Jordan Ayew has a rare chance to make history as the first player to help Ghana qualify for a World Cup while playing for a second-tier club.
The Leicester City forward is expected to step up and lead the Black Stars to victory in their crucial clash against Comoros.
Source: YEN.com.gh