2026 World Cup: Ghana To Face England, Croatia, Panama

Ghana’s Black Stars now know the teams they will face at the 2026 World Cup, and the draw brings both hope and tough challenges.

After beating Comoros 1-0 in their final qualifier 54 days ago, Ghana waited to find out who they would meet in the expanded 48-team tournament. Now the group is confirmed. The Black Stars are in Group L, where they will play England, Croatia, and Panama, three countries Ghana has never faced at the World Cup.

Ghana failed to move past the group stage in their last two World Cups, including Qatar 2022. This time, they aim to do better when the tournament kicks off in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Head coach Otto Addo has taken Ghana to two straight World Cups, and many fans want to see the team advance. But with tough opponents ahead, the question is whether that goal is realistic.

Facing England

England are the strongest team in Ghana’s group. Their last meeting with Ghana was a friendly at Wembley 14 years ago, where Asamoah Gyan scored a beautiful equalizer. That match ended 1-1 and remains their only encounter.

England enter this World Cup in excellent shape. They won all eight of their qualifying games, scored 22 goals, and did not concede any. Ranked fourth in the world, they are considered strong contenders for the title. With big names like Harry Kane, Declan Rice, and Jude Bellingham, England will be hard for any team to beat. They also have a perfect record against African teams in the World Cup.

Facing Croatia

Croatia come into the tournament with a lot of experience and a strong history at World Cups. They finished second in 2018 and third in 2022. This 2026 tournament will likely be the last for their captain Luka Modrić, who could reach 200 international appearances.

Croatia qualified easily, topping their group with seven wins and one draw. They scored 26 goals and conceded only four. Led by Modrić, defender Joško Gvardiol, and winger Ivan Perišić, the team has enough quality to trouble any side. Ghana have never played Croatia before, but Croatia’s record against African teams is good.

Facing Panama

Panama may be the least famous team in the group, but they are not weak. They qualified unbeaten from their group in the Concacaf region and have been improving steadily. This will be only their second World Cup appearance, the first since 2018.

Panama rely on an experienced core of players like Aníbal Godoy, Alberto Quintero, Eric Davis, and goalkeeper Luis Mejía. They also shocked many people by eliminating the USA from the 2024 Copa América. Ranked 30th in the world, they are above Ghana and should not be underestimated.

What this group means for Ghana

Coach Otto Addo says Ghana can “beat anyone on a good day.” Ghana have players who understand European football well, including Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, and Fatawu Issahaku. But inconsistency remains a major problem for the Black Stars.

England are the favorites. Croatia are always dangerous at major tournaments. Panama may look easier on paper, but they are organised and confident.

Ghana start their matches on 17 June against Panama, then face England six days later, and finish with Croatia on 27 June. A win in the first game is very important. With the new World Cup format allowing some third-placed teams to advance, Ghana still have a realistic chance—but only if they take their opportunities.

Source: JoyNews Sports