World Cup 2026: I am not convinced about Black Stars’ chances – Nii Lante Vanderpuye

Former Ghana Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has raised concerns over the Black Stars’ chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he is not fully convinced by the current squad.

Ghana, set for their fifth appearance at the global showpiece, have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, with expectations high that the team can finally progress beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010.

But Vanderpuye believes the team lacks the stability and consistency required to compete at the highest level.

“I’m not 100% confident in our team; I’m not. I am a Ghanaian, but I’m confident in them," he told Citi FM.

He pointed to what he described as constant changes within the setup as a major concern, particularly within the technical team.

"The confidence I had in the team that went to the 2006 World Cup, 2010 and even 2014 World Cup, it’s not the same as now due to the fact that this team has not been a consistent team.

“There’s been too many mix-ups in this team, and worst of all, look at the change in the timing in the change of the technical department, and unfortunately, we are looking at a team that is training under this coach for just about a month,” Vanderpuye added.

The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. They will conclude their group fixtures against Croatia on June 27.

The team has already arrived in Toronto and is expected to hold a mandatory training session ahead of their opening match on Wednesday.