Asamoah Gyan: Ghana will progress despite ‘tricky group’

Former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan, has described the Black Stars’ group at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a “tricky” one following the draw held in Miami, United States, on Friday, December 5.

Ghana have been drawn alongside England, Croatia and Panama in what promises to be a competitive group at the expanded 48-team tournament, which the United States, Canada and Mexico will jointly host.

Speaking as a special guest at the draw ceremony, Gyan expressed optimism about Ghana’s chances of progressing to the next stage despite the challenge posed by the group.

“Well, I think it is a tricky group. All four teams want to qualify, and we are definitely optimistic back home. Everybody back home wants Ghana to qualify. We will do our best to qualify for the next stage,” he said.

Gyan said the match-up against England would be one to relish, given the long-standing football links between the two countries.

Under the new tournament format, the top two teams in each of the 12 groups, as well as the best third-placed teams, will advance to the Round of 32.

Ghana will face a tough test against England, one of the pre-tournament favourites and a side packed with Premier League stars. The fixture will mark the first-ever World Cup meeting between the two nations, generating early excitement among fans.

Standing in Ghana’s way as well is Croatia, the 2018 World Cup finalists and one of Europe’s most consistent international sides. Despite an expected generational transition by 2026, the Croatians remain a formidable opponent with significant tournament experience.

The Black Stars will also take on Panama, who return to the World Cup hoping to make their mark. Known for their physical approach and disciplined style of play, Panama will be keen to cause upsets against more established teams.

Ghana will be making its fifth appearance at the World Cup and will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage after exiting early at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Many analysts believe the group presents both challenges and opportunities for the Black Stars, particularly if they can draw on the energy and resilience that have long defined their performances on the global stage.