2026 World Cup: England, Croatia and Panama are beatable, says ex-GFA veep George Afriyie

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President George Afriyie has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to overcome all opponents in their 2026 World Cup group.

Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama for next summer’s tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

In an interview with Asempa FM, Afriyie acknowledged the quality of Ghana’s group rivals but insisted the national team has what it takes to secure victories against each of them.

“England, Croatia, and Panama are all beatable,” he stated.

Afriyie also emphasized the importance of arranging high-profile friendly matches ahead of the World Cup, noting that such games would give the team valuable preparation.

“Playing high-profile friendlies is the right approach ahead of the World Cup,” he added.

Ghana will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, take on England in Boston on June 23, and conclude the group stage versus Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

After consecutive group-stage exits in Brazil (2014) and Qatar (2022), the Black Stars will be hoping to advance further in this edition.