‘We Want to Go Very Far’ – Sports Minister Sets Ambitious Target for Black Stars at 2026 World Cup
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, has declared that the Black Stars are not just targeting participation but a deep run at the highly-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Minister made the remarks as the team continues preparations for the global tournament, with a friendly against Mexico scheduled for this Friday, May 22, followed by another against Wales in early June.
“We have already qualified for the World Cup, so qualification is not why we are bringing in a new coach. We are hiring the coach because we want to go very far,” he said.
“For a World Cup, Ghana should not be aiming for anything below the next stage after the group phase. In this particular tournament, that means reaching the round of 32,” he stated.
The Black Stars will open their Group L campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17, before facing England at Boston Stadium on June 23 and concluding the group stage against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field on June 27.
As four-time African champions, Ghana will be determined to avoid another early exit after suffering group-stage eliminations at the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups in Brazil and Qatar respectively.
The Minister’s comments underline the high expectations on coach Carlos Queiroz and his team as the Black Stars look to make a significant impact on the biggest stage in world football.
By: Iddrisu Abdul Rahim
