Assistant coach of the Black Stars, John Paintsil, has highlighted the heightened expectations surrounding Ghana ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The West African side, four-time African champions, will host their fifth World Cup this summer, aiming to build on past experiences despite missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in over twenty years.
Their successful qualification for the Mundial has reignited optimism among fans.
Reflecting on previous tournaments, Paintsil acknowledged past setbacks, including group-stage exits in Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022, but stressed that the team’s experience now positions them to compete at a higher level.
“When it comes to the World Cup, Ghana is now experienced. We have been to the round of 16 in 2006 and the quarter-finals in 2010,” the former Fulham and West Ham defender told 3Sports.
“Coming into this World Cup, the expectation is very high. I can’t wait to see how things will go on our side.”
The former 2006 World Cup participant also emphasized the importance of player fitness ahead of the tournament.
“Like I keep saying, I want all our players to be fit, so they’ll be ready for the call-up.”
Ghana, drawn in Group L, will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
In preparation, the Black Stars will reconvene in March for friendlies against Austria and Germany, followed by a match against Mexico before the World Cup kicks off.
Source: Ghana Soccer Net
