IShowSpeed backs Portugal to win 2026 World Cup over Ghana
Popular YouTube star IShowSpeed has once again sparked conversation among football fans after declaring his support for Portugal over Ghana during a live broadcast at the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The American streamer, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., attended the United States’ clash with Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in the early hours of Saturday, where he asked his bodyguard, Rudi on who he thinks will win the 2026 World Cup.
During the exchange, Rudi confidently predicted that Ghana would go on to lift the World Cup trophy. However, Speed quickly challenged the claim, joking that while he proudly embraces his Ghanaian identity, his loyalty to Cristiano Ronaldo remains stronger.
“I’m Ghanaian, bro… but Portugal is winning,” he told viewers watching the livestream before proudly repeating the traditional title bestowed upon him during his visit to Ghana: “Barima Kofi Akuffo.”
The remark quickly spread across social media, drawing reactions from fans who have followed the streamer’s growing connection to Ghana since his widely publicised tour of the West African nation.
Speed was honoured with the name Barima Kofi Akuffo during that visit, a gesture that symbolised his bond with the country and its people. Despite acknowledging those ties, the content creator made it clear that his support for Ronaldo and Portugal would ultimately shape his World Cup predictions.
The World Cup opener was also significant for Speed on a personal level. During the same broadcast, he surpassed 55 million subscribers on YouTube, marking another major milestone in his meteoric rise as one of the world’s most influential online personalities.
To celebrate, he performed one of his trademark backflips inside the stadium suite as fans watching online joined in the celebrations.
Speed’s involvement with the tournament extends beyond his livestreams. His recently released song, “World Cup (Champions),” features on FIFA’s official tournament album. The accompanying music video prominently showcases the flags of Ghana, the United States and England, reflecting the global audience that has helped fuel his success.
While Ghanaian supporters may have hoped for a stronger endorsement, Speed’s latest comments underline a long-standing theme among his followers: when it comes to football, his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo remains unwavering.
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