I’m not expecting much - Kwadwo Asamoah opens up on Black Stars’ chances ahead of 2026 World Cup

Former Ghana international Kwadwo Asamoah has offered a measured outlook on the Black Stars chances ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup tournament.

Ghana are paired in Group L alongside football powerhouses England, Croatia, and Panama at the biggest soccer mundial.

The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23, and wrapping up their group matches against Croatia on June 27.

Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, the ex-midfielder admitted he is tempering expectations despite Ghana’s proud history on the global stage.

“Honestly, I’m not expecting much, but I’m hoping for the best,” Asamoah said. “Ghana has always been one of the favorites among African teams when it comes to the World Cup, but it won’t be easy.”

The former Juventus star emphasized the increasing competitiveness of international football, noting that traditional labels of “big” and “small” nations no longer hold weight at the World Cup.

“There is no such thing as a ‘small’ or ‘big’ country at the World Cup,” he explained. “We might feel in our heads that we will beat Panama, but we have to wait and see. No matter how big or small a country is, they give everything.”

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the 35-year-old remains hopeful that the team can rise to the occasion if they approach the competition with the right mentality and preparation.

With the tournament drawing closer, Ghana will be looking to strike a balance between belief and caution — a message clearly echoed in Asamoah’s words as the Black Stars prepare for another shot at global glory.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded 48-team format, with Ghana securing one of Africa’s nine automatic slots.

It will be Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance, having previously competed in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022, with their best performance coming in 2010 when they reached the quarterfinals.