World Cup 2026:  Inaki Williams says Ghana opener will set tone for campaign

Ghana forward Inaki Williams has made it clear that the opening fixture against Panama will be pivotal to the Black Stars' hopes of making an impact at the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday's Group L clash at BMO Field in Toronto, the Athletic Bilbao striker acknowledged the weight of expectation but insisted the team is ready to rise to the challenge.

"Our first game is important because it is what will give us confidence," Williams said.

"We need to give out everything on the pitch; it's going to be better. I know Ghanaians always want to put pressure on us because they love football. And Ghana has history. They made history at the World Cup in 2010, and I think this is an opportunity to try and do the same for our country."

Ghana face Panama in a match widely viewed as crucial to their hopes of advancing from a daunting group that also includes England and Croatia.

A win would set the tone for the challenges ahead, while defeat would leave the Black Stars with a mountain to climb.

Williams, who switched his international allegiance from Spain to Ghana in 2022, is expected to lead the attack alongside Antoine Semenyo.

The Black Stars will be without Thomas Partey, who was denied entry to Canada, while Mohammed Kudus remains a fitness doubt.

For Williams and his teammates, the mission is clear: start strong, build confidence, and honour the legacy of Ghana's past heroes.