2026 World Cup: Ghana is in a tough group, says Derek Boateng

Former Ghana international Derek Boateng has described Group L of the 2026 World Cup as a challenging draw for the Black Stars.

Ghana will face Panama, England, and Croatia in the group stage of the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.

“That’s a tough group,” Boateng told Sporty FM. “We know how England plays—some of our players compete there, so we’re familiar with their style and key players. Croatia is always strong in tournaments; they have quality players who work hard and earn respect. Then there’s Panama, a team people may underestimate, but their captain, who plays with us in San Diego, is extremely smart on the field. One pass from him can break your defense.”

Boateng highlighted the importance of Ghana’s opening game against Panama, noting it could set the tone for the rest of the group stage.

“Beating Panama first is key. If we do that, England and Croatia won’t be as daunting. We have players like Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, and Kamaldeen Sulemana who know how to handle teams like England.”

Ghana’s World Cup campaign begins against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, followed by a clash with England on June 23 in Boston, and concludes with a meeting against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.

Having exited at the group stage in both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, the Black Stars are eager to make a deeper run in the expanded 2026 tournament.