Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has embraced the doubts surrounding the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the skepticism will provide the team with added motivation to prove its critics wrong.
Ahead of the tournament in the United States, Ayew acknowledged the daunting task awaiting Ghana in Group L, where they will battle England, Croatia, and Panama. Yet, while many foresee a tough road for the Black Stars, the captain is unwavering in his belief that the squad can defy expectations.
“We need to prove ourselves and demonstrate the quality we possess,” Ayew said. “I understand that many people don’t expect us to do well, and honestly, I like that. It gives us extra motivation when people doubt us.”
The Black Stars are preparing for their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance, eager to break past the group stage for the first time since their unforgettable journey to the quarter-finals in South Africa in 2010.
After early exits in the group stage in both 2014 and 2022, Ghana is determined to make a statement this year. Their journey kicks off against Panama on June 18, followed by high-stakes clashes with England and Croatia in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most fiercely contested groups.
