2026 World Cup: We have to show that we have quality against England – Jordan Ayew
Ghana forward Jordan Ayew says facing England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a “special game” as the Black Stars prepare for a challenging Group L campaign in the United States.
The four-time African champions are set to make their fifth World Cup appearance, having previously featured in the tournaments of 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2022. Their most memorable run came in South Africa in 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals, matching the best-ever performance by an African nation at the global showpiece at the time.
Ahead of Ghana’s opening group-stage clash against England at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Ayew reflected on his strong ties to the country where he has spent much of his professional career.
“It’s going to be a special game,” Ayew told FIFA. “I’ve been there for 10 years; it’s like my third home because France is my second home.”
The 34-year-old, who has enjoyed a lengthy career in English football, said his experiences in the country have played a major role in shaping him both professionally and personally.
Despite his affection for England, Ayew stressed that Ghana’s focus will be firmly on delivering a strong performance against one of the tournament favourites.
“We have to prove ourselves and we have to show that we have quality, and we have to be ready for the challenge,” he said.
Ghana have been drawn alongside England, Croatia and Panama in Group L, with hopes of progressing beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic run in 2010.
The Black Stars will be aiming to demonstrate that they can once again compete with the world’s elite as they seek to write a new chapter in their World Cup history.
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