- Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has backed Ghana to compete for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title.
- The former Black Stars boss believes that winning their opening fixture could give his nation the momentum to push even further.
- Ghana have been placed in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has backed Ghana to challenge for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title, insisting the Black Stars have what it takes to lift the trophy.
Fresh from winning his first-ever title outside Ghana with record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, Akonnor believes Ghana’s performance at the World Cup, set to be staged in the USA, Mexico, and Canada from June 11-July19, will largely be determined by how they fare in their opening match.
Speaking to Kumasi-based Akoma FM in Ghana, Akonnor stressed that an early positive result could prove decisive in the Black Stars’ bid to advance from the group stage.
“Ghana winning the World Cup is possible, but the most important thing is for us to win our first game,” the former Asante Kotoko tactician said.
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He believes that securing victory in the opening fixture will provide the confidence needed to excel in the remaining matches, with Ghana drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.
“Our first match is very important for a strong start, and the goal is to win it. Once we do that, knowing Ghana, we will build momentum and improve from there. But it is crucial we start well because after that, we will see things flying high.”
He added that his confidence in the current squad remains unwavering, describing his support as a reflection of his faith in the team’s potential.
“I have a lot of belief in this team, which is why I’m supporting them. I know they can achieve something special,” he added.
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Akonnor also highlighted Ghana’s growing experience on football’s biggest stage, noting that the 2026 tournament will mark the country’s fifth World Cup appearance.
He is confident the Black Stars possess the maturity and experience required to compete against any opponent.
“Ghana has come a long way. This will be our fifth World Cup appearance. By now, we should be confident in what we are doing, regardless of the opponent we face,” Akonnor stated.
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The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23.
Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia on June 27.
Under coach Carlos Queiroz, Ghana will be aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time since their memorable run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off on Thursday, June 11, with a historic double-header in Mexico featuring Group A action.
The opening match will see co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa at Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca), with kickoff scheduled for 13:00 local time (22:00 East Africa Time).
Later that day, South Korea will face Czechia at Guadalajara Stadium (Estadio Akron), starting at 20:00 local time. The match will be broadcast in East Africa at 05:00 EAT on Friday, June 12.
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