World Cup 2026: Black Stars have moved on from past disappointments, says Ati-Zigi

Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi says the Black Stars have put recent disappointments behind them as they focus on making a strong impression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana head into the tournament looking to restore pride after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Black Stars have also been eliminated at the group stage in each of their last three major tournaments, with their last knockout-stage appearance coming at the 2019 AFCON.

Despite those setbacks, Ati-Zigi insists the squad is fully focused on the task ahead rather than dwelling on the past or being distracted by the calibre of their opponents.

"We put whatever has happened behind us, and we try to focus on this World Cup. Hopefully, we can make very good use of it," Ati-Zigi told GFA Media.

"For me, it's not about the names. Everything depends on us. We focus on ourselves and, like I said, we're giving ourselves good energy. We train well, and this is what we're really focused on."

Ati-Zigi believes Ghana's preparations and positive mindset have left the squad in a good position ahead of the tournament, despite being drawn in a challenging Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

The experienced goalkeeper, who started all three of Ghana's matches at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is competing for the number one spot after impressing in the Black Stars' warm-up friendly against Wales.

Ghana open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto before facing England on June 23 in Boston. The Black Stars then take on Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia as they seek to reach the knockout stage for the first time since their quarterfinal run in 2010.