World Cup 2026: Ghana has a good team to overcome group opponents – Majeed Waris

Former Ghana international Abdul Majeed Waris has expressed optimism about the Black Stars chances ahead of the 2026 World Cup tournament.

The West African football powerhouse are set for their fifth World Cup appearances after securing one of Africa’s slots at the mundial, to be co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico next month.

Ghana are paired in Group L against European giants, England, 2018 World Cup finalists, Croatia and Panama. The Black Stars will open their account against Panama before taking on England and Croatia respectively.

Speaking to Citi Sports, the former Black Stars attacker stressed the importance of preparation and concentration ahead of the Mundial, while tipping Ghana overcome their opponents.

“I wouldn’t say that because I think we have a good team to win each of those games,” he said.

“What it comes down to is the preparation and then focusing mentally because at that stage you cannot switch off even for a minute because that can turn everything around.”

Ghana have begun preparations in Cardiff ahead of their pre-World Cup friendly against Wales, slated for June 2, with head coach Carlos Queiroz overseeing training sessions at Dragon Park.

The Black Stars are expected to spend a week training in Cardiff before taking on Wales, after which the team will travel to the United States for the next phase of preparations.

Queiroz is expected to use the training period and friendly matches to evaluate his squad before naming Ghana’s final 26-man squad for the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Ghana has previously competed in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022, with their best performance coming in 2010 when they reached the quarterfinals.