2026 World Cup: I know they will do well – C.K Akonnor on Black Stars
Former Ghana head coach Charles Akonnor has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging Ghanaians to rally behind the team as preparations intensify for the global tournament.
Ghana have been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama for the competition, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Despite the tough opposition awaiting the Black Stars, Akonnor believes the team has the quality and leadership needed to compete successfully on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking about the squad and the team’s preparations, Akonnor praised the experience of the current technical team and called on supporters to trust the decisions being made behind the scenes.
“I believe we have appointed an experienced coach, someone who has seen it all. The players selected for the World Cup clearly reflect that experience,” he said.
The former Black Stars coach cautioned against excessive criticism over player selection, noting that differing opinions are inevitable but insisting that the responsibility should remain with the coaching staff.
“There are thousands of coaches in Ghana and everyone will have their own opinion. We should leave the decision-making to him, especially on matters of selection,” Akonnor added.
He stressed the importance of unity and positivity ahead of the tournament, arguing that the team would benefit more from encouragement than scrutiny.
“What we need to do now is support him with a positive spirit.”
Akonnor also weighed in on the long-running debate surrounding player selection, particularly the tendency to favour footballers playing in Europe’s top leagues over those competing elsewhere.
“Sometimes we give too much respect to players from the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A. Our boys are also doing well, and we must believe in them,” he said.
The 51-year-old believes the current squad has what it takes to make a significant impact at the tournament despite Ghana’s group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups.
“I strongly believe in this team, and I know they will do well,” he said.
The Black Stars will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on 17 June at BMO Field before facing England on 23 June at Gillette Stadium. Their final Group L fixture will be against Croatia on 27 June.
Under head coach Carlos Queiroz, Ghana will be aiming to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time since their memorable run to the quarter-finals in 2010.
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