Ghana Ready for 2026 World Cup, Says Kudus

Ghana international Mohammed Kudus has shared his views on the Black Stars’ 2026 FIFA World Cup group, expressing confidence ahead of the tournament.
Kudus spoke after last Friday’s World Cup draw in Washington DC, where Ghana was placed in Group L.

The Black Stars will face one of the toughest groups in the tournament. They have been drawn against European giants England, 2022 World Cup semifinalists Croatia, and CONCACAF side Panama. Many analysts already describe Group L as one of the most competitive groups at the 2026 World Cup.

Kudus, who played a key role during Ghana’s qualification, believes the team has already proven its strength by reaching the tournament.

“To qualify for the World Cup alone is a big statement from us, and it shows what we can do,” he said while reacting to the draw.

The Tottenham Hotspur star added that he and his teammates are motivated by the challenge ahead.

“It’ll be interesting. I’m looking forward to it. We are very much aware of the sides we will be facing. We will definitely be up for it, and we will be ready.”

Ghana will be aiming to make a strong impression at the expanded 48–team World Cup, as the country hopes to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, when the Black Stars famously made it to the quarter-finals.

Preparations are expected to begin early, with friendly matches and training camps planned before the tournament starts in June 2026.

Kudus again stressed that Ghana’s qualification alone shows the team’s capability and sent a confident message to their group opponents.

“Just qualifying for the World Cup is already a big statement from us. And it’s good that we face England in the group. It will be an exciting match. I’m looking forward to it. We fully understand the team we’ll be up against and their quality, and we will be ready for it,” he said.

Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, then face England on June 23 in Boston. Their final group game will be against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.

The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico and will see a historic 48-team format, giving Africa nine automatic slots. This will be Ghana’s fifth appearance after 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.