2026 World Cup: Black Stars should at least make it out of their group - Laryea Kingston

Former Ghana midfielder Laryea Kingston has urged the Black Stars to aim beyond mere participation at the 2026 World Cup, insisting the team must progress past the group stage.

Ghana, four-time African champions, will compete in the summer tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. They have been drawn into Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.

Kingston, who missed out on the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, stressed that Ghana’s reputation in African football demands more than just turning up.

“My expectations are simple. Ghana has a lot of respect in Africa — our mindset is not to just go and participate," the Uganda junior national team coach told Graphic Sports.

"We are expected to go out there and do well, and I believe we will at least make it out of the group,” he added.

The Black Stars kick off their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

In preparation, Ghana will regroup in March for international friendlies against Austria and Germany, followed by a final warm-up match against Mexico in May. The team will be based at Bryant University in the United States throughout the tournament.

Following group-stage exits at both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, the Black Stars are determined to deliver a stronger performance on North American soil.