The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sent a heartfelt message to the Black Stars of Ghana as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ghana is one of ten African nations set to compete in the tournament, which will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Ghana's World Cup Journey
This marks Ghana's fifth appearance at the World Cup, having qualified for every edition since 2006 except for the 2018 tournament in Russia. The Black Stars topped Group I of the CAF qualifiers with 25 points, recording eight wins, one draw, and a single loss to Comoros. They have been drawn into Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, presenting a formidable challenge.
CAF's Message of Support
CAF took to its official X page to share an encouraging message with the team. The post read: "Some World Cup stories never fade. Ghana gave Africa one of its greatest. It’s time for a new chapter." The organization also recalled Ghana's remarkable performance at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they came within 90 seconds of becoming the first African nation to reach the semifinals. A last-minute handball by Luis Suarez and a missed penalty by Asamoah Gyan ended their historic run. CAF added: "Ghana in 2010. One of Africa’s greatest #FIFAWorldCup stories. The first World Cup on African soil. The closest an African nation had ever come. A journey that changed what felt possible forever."
Team Preparations
Ghana enters the tournament under the guidance of Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, who replaced Otto Addo in March. Queiroz will be without injured star Mohammed Kudus but has included former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who faces multiple assault charges in the UK. When questioned about Partey's selection, Queiroz defended his decision, stating: "If the player is here with me, my answer is clear. I don't have any comments about my own decisions. He is here, so what are we talking about? This is not for me or you to make a judgment about. Let the events run their normal course; let the river flow, and one day when the river meets the ocean, we are going to find the truth."
FIFA President's Support
Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana on their qualification, acknowledging the color, style, and passion that Ghanaians bring to the world stage. He expressed anticipation for their performance in the United States.
As the Black Stars prepare for their fifth World Cup campaign, they carry the hopes of a continent eager to see Africa make a deep run in the tournament.
