World Cup 2026: Black Stars will fight for the title - Kurt Okraku

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has set an ambitious tone ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the Black Stars are not participating to make up the numbers but to compete for the ultimate prize.

Speaking at a farewell dinner for the team at the Hilton Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, on Wednesday, Okraku expressed strong belief in the squad’s potential to challenge the world’s best.

“We strongly believe in this team, and we know that we are not here to be counted among the numbers but to compete and fight for the title,” President Okraku said.

Despite growing public doubt following recent tournament performances, the GFA President maintained a confident and defiant stance, urging belief in Ghana’s chances on the global stage.

“This is our time to shine. The stakes are high. A lot of people don’t believe, but I do. I feel energised and very upbeat about our chances in this tournament. We are Ghana, and we shall conquer.”

The Black Stars are seeking to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010 and have been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group match comes against Croatia on June 27.

The squad has since arrived in Rhode Island, where they will be based for the duration of the tournament.