Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has warned the Black Stars against underestimating Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding that complacency could derail Ghana’s campaign before it truly begins.
The Black Stars take on Panama in their Group L opener at BMO Field in Toronto on Wednesday, knowing victory would put them in a strong position ahead of tougher fixtures against England and Croatia.
While Kingston believes Ghana have the quality to claim all three points, he stressed that the outcome will depend more on the team’s mentality than its talent.
“It will be an interesting game. Ghana have the stronger side, but when it comes to football, it’s unpredictable,” Kingston exclusively told Footy-Africa.
World Cup 2026. Queiroz backs Ghana to open campaign with victory over Panama
“The boys have stayed together for some time, and I think the new coach, Carlos Queiroz, has settled in well. That continuity is important and should help the team, but at the end of the day, everything depends on the approach they take into the game.”
Kingston, who represented Ghana at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations, warned that looking down on Panama would be a costly mistake.
“If they approach the game with all seriousness, then I believe Ghana will get the result,” he said. “But if they start looking at the opponent and thinking they are not at Ghana’s level, that’s when football punishes you. That’s when the surprises come.”
The former Hearts of Oak and Ajax midfielder believes Ghana must respect every opponent if they are to progress beyond the group stage.
“At this stage, there are no easy games. Panama will believe they have a chance, so Ghana must stay disciplined, stay focused and respect the opponent. If they do that, I believe they have enough quality to start the tournament with a win.”
Anthony Yeboah backs Ghana to start World Cup campaign with victory
Ghana are making their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup and will be looking to reach the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run in South Africa in 2010.
A winning start against Panama would hand Queiroz’s side valuable momentum before they face England and Croatia in two decisive Group L encounters.
