Caleb Yirenkyi vows Ghana will return stronger after 2026 World Cup exit

Soccer player in a yellow jersey with number 3, arms outstretched and mouth open, celebrating on the pitch with a cheering crowd in the background.
By Jamaldeen Wiayuka July 5, 2026

Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi says the Black Stars will “come back stronger” after their 2026 World Cup campaign ended with a narrow defeat to Colombia.

The 20-year-old shared an emotional message with supporters after Ghana lost 1-0 in the Round of 32 in Kansas City.

The result brought an end to a promising tournament for Carlos Queiroz’s side, who progressed from Group L but were unable to find a way through a disciplined Colombian defence in the knockout stage.

Yirenkyi, who emerged as one of Ghana’s standout players during the tournament, said the disappointment of the defeat was still being felt by the squad.

“Even after some time to reflect, this one still hurts,” the FC Nordsjælland midfielder wrote on social media.

“Our World Cup journey has come to an end, but I’m incredibly proud to have represented my country on the biggest stage.”

Yirenkyi became a fan favourite after scoring Ghana’s opening goal of the tournament against Panama in June, a strike that helped set the tone for the Black Stars’ run to the knockout rounds.

He thanked Ghanaian supporters for backing the team throughout the competition.

“Thank you all for your unwavering support,” he said. “It means more than you know. Thank you Ghana.”

Despite the early exit, Yirenkyi said he remained confident about the future of the national team and his own development.

“This is not the end,” he added. “I’ll keep working, keep improving. The best is yet to come.”

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Jamaldeen Wiayuka