Ghana star Mohammed Kudus has issued a bold message to the Black Stars’ rivals ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the team’s mere presence at the global showpiece is proof of their rising strength.
Drawn into the challenging Group L, Ghana will square off against England, Croatia and Panama in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most competitive pools. The West Africans begin their campaign on June 17 in Toronto against Panama before their much-anticipated duel with England in Boston on June 23. They then close the group stage against 2018 finalists Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
Kudus edges closer to World Cup dream with Ghana awaiting Messi showdown
Kudus, gearing up for his second World Cup appearance, believes Ghana’s qualification speaks volumes about their readiness and ambition.
“Just qualifying for the World Cup is already a big statement from us. And it’s good that we face England in the group. It will be an exciting match. I’m looking forward to it. We fully understand the team we’ll be up against and their quality, and we will be ready for it,” he said.
The 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico will debut its expanded 48-team format, giving Africa a historic nine direct slots. For Ghana, it marks a return to familiar terrain, having previously featured in 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2022. Their most memorable run remains the 2010 edition, where they reached the brink of a semifinal place.
With Kudus confident and the squad hungry to make an impression, the Black Stars will hope to turn their group of heavyweights into a platform for another unforgettable campaign.
