This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualifying nations. is providing daily previews from three countries as the tournament approaches, set to commence on June 11.
Ghana’s recent warm-up match against Wales in Cardiff offered insights into the strategic direction of their new coach, Carlos Queiroz. The first half mirrored the struggles of the previous regime, showcasing a disorganized low block and ineffective pressing reminiscent of the team Otto Addo left behind. However, the second half revealed a more promising approach with a coordinated mid-block and synchronized pressing, improving the protection for full-backs.
The Tactical Approach
Queiroz appears to favor a traditional back four, contrasting with Addo’s preference for a back three. In Cardiff, he utilized a double pivot of Elisha Owusu alongside a notably underperforming Thomas Partey, who was substituted in the second half for Caleb Yirenkyi, a change that seemed pivotal. The partnership of Yirenkyi, who netted Ghana’s goal, and Kwasi Sibo infused the midfield with energy and intensity.
On the flanks, Ernest Nuamah and Christopher Bonsu Baah have emerged as strong contenders for the right-wing position. While Baah demonstrated his capabilities on the left against Wales, Antoine Semenyo is expected to secure the right side. This development may leave players like Iñaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Abdul Fatawu on the bench.
Ghana: Group L Fixtures
17 June vs. Panama, Toronto (7 PM local, 18 June 12 AM BST, 18 June 9 AM AEST)
23 June vs. England, Boston (4 PM local, 9 PM BST, 24 June 6 AM AEST)
27 June vs. Croatia, Philadelphia (5 PM local, 10 PM BST, 28 June 5 AM AEST)
A primary concern for Ghana is their goal-scoring ability. Jordan Ayew, who contributed to 14 goals during the qualifying rounds, managed only six goals for Leicester last season. More troubling is his reduced playing time for a team relegated to League One. The hope is that Semenyo, who had an impressive tally of 17 goals and four assists in the Premier League, can lead Ghana’s offensive efforts.
In Group L, alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, Ghana possesses sufficient talent to make a significant impact in North America. Their best World Cup performance occurred in 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals.
The Coach
Carlos Queiroz brings extensive coaching experience from stints at Real Madrid and Manchester United, as well as four previous World Cup campaigns – with Portugal in 2010 and Iran in 2014, 2018, and 2022. He describes his current role as his toughest challenge yet, stating, “After eight national teams and a couple of important competitions, this is the biggest challenge of my entire career, and I am ready for that,”
In an alternate reality, Antoine Semenyo might be preparing to represent England at the World Cup, likely as a starter. However, he will don Ghana’s gold jersey in Foxborough on June 23 when they face the Three Lions. Semenyo’s international journey has not unfolded as anticipated, with only three goals in 34 caps. Nevertheless, his remarkable form this season, including 17 goals and four assists for Bournemouth and Manchester City, positions him as a significant threat to opposing defenses.
Key Player to Watch
Caleb Yirenkyi has drawn comparisons to Michael Essien due to his impressive tackling, passing, and ability to advance the ball into the opponent’s territory. His combination of athleticism and technical skill makes him effective at both ends of the pitch. A potential transfer to Brighton fell through earlier this year, but interest in the 20-year-old Nordsjælland midfielder remains high. His club and international teammate Prince Amoako remarked, “When you work for Ghana, they don’t expect anything different than win, win, win. That is why it is the biggest challenge.”
Unsung Hero
Following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana turned to Benjamin Asare, the first goalkeeper from the Ghana Premier League to start a competitive match for the national team since 2015. While not particularly outstanding, he managed to make the necessary saves and instilled confidence in a previously vulnerable defense. Concerns remain about his ability to handle crosses, yet his quick reflexes, agility, and solid distribution helped transform a defense that had conceded 13 goals in nine competitive matches before his arrival, to one that conceded just once in six World Cup qualifiers.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations
The Ghana Supporters Union is set to be one of the most vibrant fan groups this summer. With their lively band, they create an electrifying atmosphere wherever they gather. Although FIFA prohibits musical instruments at the venues, the Supporters Union has a history of bringing energy and their signature “He doesn’t see himself the way we see him because he’s a very humble guy. But Caleb is insane, he’s crazily good. He’s a superstar, and I tell him so every time.” a lively and rhythmic chant. The Ghanaian government is supporting thousands of fans to attend the tournament, raising over $3 million for this effort.
US Relations and Political Context
Ghana’s relationship with the United States is cautious. The nation faces tariffs on goods, disputes over visa policies, and recently walked away from a significant US health and aid agreement, citing demands for access to private citizen health data. The Ghanaian government, which accepted deportees from the US under Trump’s immigration crackdown last year, is navigating this delicate situation. Carlos Queiroz’s extensive experience with Iran may complicate matters, but he is unlikely to make bold statements. In 2022, while coaching Iran, he avoided engaging with the political tensions surrounding their match against the USA, emphasizing that, “Our mission is here to create entertainment, to make people happy. To bring smiles to all people for 90 minutes.”
