Assistant coach Roger De Sá confident Black Stars can progress at 2026 World Cup

Black Stars assistant coach Roger De Sá has expressed optimism that Ghana can advance beyond the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup if the players perform to their full potential.

Ghana will be making their fifth appearance at the global tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with expectations high for a stronger showing after disappointing exits in 2014 and 2022 at the group phase.

Speaking on the Beyond The Whistle podcast, the South African tactician stressed that success will depend largely on commitment and discipline within the squad under head coach Carlos Queiroz.

“We are here to do our best and make Ghanaians happy. If Carlos does his job, there is none better than him,” he said.

“We will pick our targets as they come. If our players play to their abilities, we have a realistic chance to progress," Roger De Sa added.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, setting up a challenging path to the knockout stages. The Black Stars open their campaign against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17, before facing England in Boston on June 23. They will conclude the group phase against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

Before the tournament begins, Ghana will step up their preparations with friendly matches against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to name his final squad for the tournament on June 1 as preparations enter their decisive phase.