VIENNA, AUSTRIA - MARCH 27: Team Ghana during their national anthem during the friendly match between Austria and Ghana at Ernst Happel Stadion on March 27, 2026 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Severin Aichbauer/SEPA.Media /Getty Images)

World Cup 2026: Albert Adomah says Black Stars must respect every opponent

· GhanaSoccernet

Former Ghana international Albert Adomah has urged the Black Stars to prepare for a stern test at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while insisting the squad possesses the quality to reach the knockout rounds.

Drawn in Group L, Ghana will face formidable opposition in England, Croatia, and Panama as they make their fifth appearance at football's biggest tournament. The four-time African champions have been handed a competitive group, setting up a demanding path to the round of 16.

In an exclusive interview with 3Sports, Adomah admitted the group presents a major challenge but stressed that Ghana must embrace the opportunity with confidence and determination.

"It will be a difficult group," he said. "We've got top teams in England and Croatia. On paper, some people might look at Panama and think they are the easiest side, but football does not work like that."

The former winger also warned against underestimating any opponent, pointing out that teams considered outsiders often deliver their strongest displays when expectations are lowest.

"As players, the team you think you should beat easily is often the one that produces its best performance against you. That is why Ghana must be very cautious and respect every opponent," he cautioned.

Adomah emphasized that Ghana's hopes of advancing will depend not only on the quality within the squad but also on their level of focus, preparation, and mentality heading into each fixture.

"Ghana have a very good chance of progressing. We have talented players and plenty of options available. But it will come down to how the players show up, both mentally and physically," Adomah added.

Even with a tough assignment ahead, Adomah remains upbeat about Ghana's prospects, insisting that self-belief can be a powerful weapon on the world stage.

"If the players believe they are the best team on the pitch, they can beat anybody. This is the World Cup. Once the tournament begins, rankings and seedings mean very little. Anyone can beat anyone," he concluded.

Ghana open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and wrapping up their group-stage matches against Croatia on June 27.