Former Ghana defender Dan Quaye believes the Black Stars must approach their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture against Panama with determination and resilience if they are to begin the tournament on a positive note.
Ghana launch their Group L campaign on Wednesday, June 17, knowing that a strong result could prove crucial in a section that also features heavyweights England and Croatia. With little margin for error in one of the competition’s toughest groups, securing three points against Panama has become a priority for the four-time African champions.
Quaye, who represented Ghana during his playing days, has warned against underestimating the Central American side, insisting that Panama will arrive equally motivated to make a statement on football’s biggest stage.
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“Panama will not be easy opponents for Ghana. While we are aiming for a strong start to the tournament, they will also be desperate for victory. I believe that with a strong fighting spirit, the Black Stars can succeed against them,” he told Koforidua-based Swiit FM.
The former international also stressed that while head coach Carlos Queiroz is working tirelessly to prepare the squad, ultimate responsibility rests with the players once they step onto the pitch.
“Coach Carlos Queiroz is doing his best, but I think everything will ultimately depend on the players if we are to make an impact at this tournament.”
Ghana enter the tournament eager to recapture the magic of their historic run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals and came within a penalty shootout of becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals. Since then, the Black Stars have struggled to replicate that achievement despite appearances at the 2014 and 2022 editions.
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Now preparing for their fifth World Cup participation, optimism is growing that the 2026 tournament, hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, could mark the beginning of a new chapter for Ghanaian football.
However, as Quaye has emphasized, progress may hinge less on tactics and more on the hunger and commitment shown by the players when the competition gets underway.
