By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | June 8, 2026
Former Black Stars head coach, Charles Kwabla Akonnor, has expressed confidence that Ghana has what it takes to win the FIFA World Cup, insisting that the Black Stars should never be underestimated despite being considered outsiders ahead of the 2026 tournament.
Speaking as Ghana prepares for its fifth appearance at football’s biggest competition, Akonnor said success at the World Cup is possible if the team remains focused, disciplined, and united throughout the tournament. His comments come as excitement continues to build ahead of Ghana’s opening Group L match against Panama in Toronto on June 17.
According to the former national team coach, football has repeatedly shown that tournaments are not always won by the pre-tournament favourites. He argued that with proper preparation, tactical discipline, and belief, Ghana can compete with any team in the world.
Akonnor pointed to Ghana’s proud World Cup history as evidence that the country is capable of achieving remarkable success on the global stage. Since making its World Cup debut in 2006, Ghana has established itself as one of Africa’s most respected football nations, reaching the Round of 16 in Germany before making a historic run to the quarter-finals in South Africa in 2010. Ghana came within a penalty kick of becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final.
The former coach believes the current generation possesses enough quality to compete at the highest level. The squad features experienced players such as Jordan Ayew, Iñaki Williams, Thomas Partey, and Antoine Semenyo, alongside several emerging talents eager to make their mark on the world stage.
Ghana enters the 2026 World Cup drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama. While many analysts regard England and Croatia as favourites to advance, Akonnor believes the Black Stars have the ability to surprise critics and challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.
His optimism contrasts with some statistical predictions that place Ghana among the tournament’s underdogs. Nevertheless, Akonnor maintains that football is decided on the pitch rather than by rankings or computer models.
The comments have resonated with many Ghanaian supporters, who remain hopeful that the Black Stars can produce another memorable World Cup campaign. With a new coaching setup led by experienced Portuguese manager Carlos Queiroz and a squad blending youth and experience, expectations are growing as the tournament approaches.
For Akonnor, the message is simple: Ghana has the talent, history, and determination to dream big.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, Black Stars fans across Ghana and the diaspora will be hoping that belief can translate into results and perhaps one of the greatest achievements in African football history.
