2026 World Cup: Are Black Stars players good enough to compete? - Herbert Mensah quizzes

Former Asante Kotoko chairman, Herbert Mensah, has cast doubt over the quality and preparedness of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana will participate in the global tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico later this summer, marking the country’s fifth appearance at the Mundial.

As part of preparations for the competition, the Black Stars will take on Mexico in an international friendly on May 22 before facing Wales on June 2.

Despite qualifying for the tournament, Ghana endured a disappointing March international break after suffering back-to-back defeats to Austria and Germany, raising concerns over the team’s form heading into the World Cup.

Speaking in an interview with LUV FM, Mensah questioned whether the current squad is capable of competing at the highest level and whether the players are mentally and tactically prepared for the challenge ahead.

"But are the players good enough? Have they been well prepared? Are they stable? Are they demoralised by what's going on? What is the leadership team and the team like?

Mensah also expressed concerns about the internal atmosphere within the national team and the effectiveness of the management structure.

"How does it really work within the caucus group of the black stars, and whether the management team themselves are okay, and there's a lot of self -examination,” added Herbert.

The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.