World Cup 2026: Black Stars goalkeeper Ati-Zigi urges teammates to maintain winning mentality

Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has called on his teammates to remain mentally strong throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting a positive mindset will be crucial to the Black Stars' chances of success.

With Ghana preparing to face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L, Ati-Zigi believes resilience and belief will be just as important as quality on the pitch.

"They have to have a positive mindset because it gets to a point when things aren't going well. I think that's when we need this winning mentality and winning spirit," Ati-Zigi told GFA Media.

"I think they just need this to help the team achieve better goals."

The experienced goalkeeper said maintaining belief during difficult moments could make the difference in a tournament where fine margins often determine outcomes.

Ati-Zigi is hoping to feature at his second World Cup after impressing at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Although he lost the first-choice role during the World Cup qualifiers, his outstanding display in Ghana's warm-up friendly against Wales has put him firmly back in contention to start under coach Carlos Queiroz.

The Black Stars open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto before facing England on June 23 in Boston. Ghana will complete their Group L fixtures against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.