World Cup 2026: Godwin Attram backs emerging defensive pair Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku as Ghana eyes stability

Former Ghana international Godwin Attram has thrown his support behind the central defensive partnership of Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku, insisting the duo can anchor the team’s backline heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The pair were handed their first outing together during Ghana’s recent friendly against Wales last month, a match staged as part of preparations for the tournament in North America.

Their inclusion came amid injury setbacks to key defenders Mohammed Salisu and Alexander Djiku, forcing head coach Carlos Queiroz to experiment with his defensive options.

Despite lingering concerns over Ghana’s defensive depth, Attram was encouraged by what he described as a composed and increasingly promising partnership. The former midfielder believes the pair’s understanding could prove crucial for Ghana on the global stage.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Attram highlighted both the structure and intent of the team’s approach.

"We defended in a medium block and looked to press in specific areas before winning possession," Attram told Graphic Sports.

"The problem in the first half was that our transitions were too slow. Once we won the ball, we continued circulating it instead of attacking quickly, which was the objective."

However, he reserved particular praise for the centre-back pairing, stressing their discipline and growing chemistry.

“If Adjetey and Jerome continue to show that level of awareness and discipline, I do not think Ghana will have any major problems defensively during the tournament."

Attram pointed to their duel success, interception work and aerial strength as key positives, adding that their coordination improved as the match progressed.

According to him, Wales were eventually forced to adjust their attacking strategy after struggling to exploit Ghana in the air.

"There were very few mistakes [against Wales], and they complemented each other effectively," he said.

"They won important duels, intercepted passes and covered for one another. Their aerial dominance was particularly noteworthy for the retired star.

"As the game progressed, Wales realised they were unlikely to win high balls and started looking for different attacking solutions. That is what good defenders do. They read the game, adapt and understand what opponents are trying to achieve," he added.

Ghana, four-time African champions, will make their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, where they have been drawn in a demanding Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17, before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group match comes against Croatia on June 27.