“I Have High Hopes” – Michael Essien Backs Black Stars to Progress at 2026 World Cup

Former Ghana and Chelsea midfield legend Michael Essien believes the Black Stars have the quality to advance from the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Essien, who was present at Cardiff City Stadium to watch Ghana’s 1-1 draw against Wales in Carlos Queiroz’s first game in charge, shared his optimism about the team’s prospects.

“I think the team has the quality to make it out of the group phase. They were disappointing in the last World Cup in Qatar, and as a Ghanaian, the nation is also expecting the boys to do well,” the former Chelsea midfielder told talkSPORTS.

“If they can make it out of the group stage and then go to the next stage, and if something happens, I am sure the nation will be happy, but I have high hopes for the team to perform,” he added.

The Black Stars arrived in the United States in the early hours of today after leaving Cardiff, as they continue final preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will face Jamaica in their last pre-tournament friendly on June 10.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. They will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

Michael Essien’s endorsement comes as a boost to the team, with many hoping the four-time African champions can finally go beyond the group phase and restore national pride on the global stage.