Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has explained his decision to call up Derrick Luckassen as a replacement for the injured Alexander Djiku ahead of the 2026 World Cup tournament in North… Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan believes Antoine Semenyo will face more pressure than any other Black Stars player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the expectations that come…
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The public would have had the information it deserved without being strung along through a two-stage announcement that serves the administration more than it serves the supporters, the players, or the coach. To ensure full participation, organisers adopted visual communication methods during matches. In addition to the referee’s whistle, flags and visual signals were used to communicate stoppages and key decisions. An interpreter was also present throughout the event to facilitate communication among players, coaches and officials. “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA stated.
A young squad with talent and energy can still compete with higher-ranked opposition, particularly in a format that allows third-placed teams to reach the knockout stage. Djiku’s absence is a major blow given that Mohammed Salisu is also unavailable after sustaining an ACL injury during the season. The pair played every minute of Ghana’s matches at the 2022 World Cup and were widely expected to form the backbone of the Black Stars defence once again.
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The Tottenham Hotspur star could’ve played an important role for the Ghana national football team, but has been left out due to an injury. The Ghana coach explained that managing player fitness and mental freshness had become a key part of international football, particularly ahead of a major tournament. According to him, Paintsil’s influence and consistency at club level surpass that of several players currently in the national team setup especially Atalata’s Kamaldeen Sulemana. Kamaldeen has played for the Black Stars for close to six years and has only one goal,” Nimley stated.
The academy maintains its focus on producing technically skilled players for Ghanaian and international clubs. This academy focuses on creating pathways for young players to professional football locally and internationally. WAFA competes in Ghana’s top football leagues, providing players with elite competition experience. Ghana football icon and former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan, is on a new chapter of national service after being unveiled as Ambassador for Ghana’s national football teams and colts football by the Ghana Football Association.
That consistency restored confidence after missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, countries with stronger records in previous competitions and against tougher opposition have remained ahead of Ghana in the rankings. Ghana find themselves in Pot 4 ahead of the 2026 World Cup draw, a position that reflects their current standing in global football. Wales, meanwhile, are using the game as an opportunity to continue building under coach Craig Bellamy despite missing out on qualification for the World Cup.
Carlos Queiroz enjoys Ghana’s passion for football ahead of Wales friendly
In their subsequent two competitions, in 2014 and 2022, the Black Stars have failed to go past the competition’s group stage. Painful omissions such as Paintsil, Ashimeru and Köhn are not technically final yet. It is a convenient posture that extends the uncertainty while managing the news cycle. Jordan Ayew is expected to captain Ghana, while Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah and Christopher Bonsu Baah are among the players pushing for starting places. “We want to play great football, we want to play to win and bring joy to our fans,” he said. Ghana fixtures tab is showing the last 100 football matches with statistics and win/draw/lose icons.
Lizzy Sports combines football, fitness, and personal development in a supportive environment. Right to Dream focuses on academic excellence, character development, and world-class football training. Below is a detailed breakdown of Ghana’s leading football academies, their fees, and what they offer. Ghana’s success in African and global football is closely linked to its network of grassroots academies. Complete guide to the top football academies in Ghana and their fees for 2025.
Ghana name 26-man squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 ft. Antoine Semenyo
“Everything is going to depend on how he’s going to deal with that pressure for the first time, because he hasn’t been under it with the national team before he made that huge transfer. That will not let up this summer either with the Manchester City forward expected to be a key player Ghana at the World Cup. “Today, the day before the game, is the first time we have the team together. That’s an innovation for my football book.” The Portuguese coach said player welfare had been prioritised after many squad members arrived in camp following the conclusion of their club commitments across Europe.
Hearts of Oak part ways with coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani after third-place finish
- Even though he is the oldest player in the current generation, he is still a dependable source of motivation.
- Football is more than just a sport in Ghana — it is a passion, a culture, and a pathway to global opportunities.
- For now, however, another World Cup dream has slipped away from one of Ghana’s most exciting attacking talents.
- Players with exceptional talent may graduate into Hearts of Oak’s professional team.
- Organisers described the competition as a demonstration of how sport can break barriers and create opportunities for people of all abilities.
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- “When the World Cup draw was made, I saw the game in my mind. We made history and I’ve been part of that game to score that incredible goal. I’m very happy about that especially playing against England.”
- “They only started arriving because of club games until May 25. They needed rest, three, four, five days depending on minutes and intensity.”
- Thomas Partey currently holds this position with $36.4 million net worth from his Premier League career and African business investments.
Nimley went further by comparing Paintsil’s performances with some of the players who made the squad and insisted the Galaxy winger has done enough to merit consideration. Paintsil missed out on the previous World Cup after then Black Stars coach Otto Addo omitted him from the final squad, and a similar situation appears to have unfolded under new Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz. Coach Christopher Nimley has sounded strong words of caution to LA Galaxy forward Joseph Paintsil, urging him to focus on his club career after being left out of Ghana’s squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Medeama Sporting Club head coach Ibrahim Tanko has pointed to the trust given to him by President of the club… No academy can guarantee contracts, but they significantly improve a player’s chances by offering exposure and development. This academy has built a reputation for consistency in developing competitive players.
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With 51 goals for Ghana, Gyan remains the nation’s most prolific scorer, having represented the Black Stars across three FIFA World Cups and etched his name permanently into football history. The Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has organised an inclusive rugby competition that brought together deaf and hearing athletes at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium in Legon, Accra. Thomas Partey currently holds this position with $36.4 million net worth from his Premier League career and African business investments. His former £200,000 weekly Arsenal salary established him as Ghana’s highest-earning active player.
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- The GFA looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote football development in Ghana and engage with stakeholders through initiatives like the MEET THE PRESS series.
- Mohammed Salisu also missed out after the Monaco centre back ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in a Ligue 1 clash in January.
- Alexander Djiku was a decent centre-back option for the Ghana national football team in recent years.
- AFCON and World Cup campaigns offer substantial bonus structures, with qualification and progression bonuses reaching six figures for deep tournament runs.
- As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision.
- Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has confirmed that defender Alexander Djiku will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injury, ending speculation over the availability of one of the Black Stars’ most experienced defenders.
- Several academies, such as Right to Dream and WAFA, integrate academics with football training.
- “Let’s be realistic. More than 50% of the squad wasn’t here with us,” Queiroz said.
- For today’s football schedule and results visit our football live score page.
- Ghana football icon and former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan, is on a new chapter of national service after being unveiled as Ambassador for Ghana’s national football teams and colts football by the Ghana Football Association.
- The complications kept him out for an extended period, with the midfielder only returning to partial team training in late 2025 before resuming full training in January 2026.
- Ghana’s success in African and global football is closely linked to its network of grassroots academies.
This modest compensation forces talented prospects toward European academies that offer times higher wages immediately. Ghana is known for its energetic playing style, technical skill, and passionate fan support. The team has produced world-class players like Abedi Pele, Michael Essien and Asamoah Gyan who have been instrumental in raising Ghana’s profile on the global stage. The naming of a 28 then 26 format might seem like a minor procedural detail.
Being in the lowest pot guarantees that Ghana will face a top team from Pot 1, either a co-host nation or one of the world’s strongest sides. They will avoid another African opponent in the group due to confederation rules, but strong challengers from Europe, South America and Asia remain likely. The seeding increases the need for fast adaptation once the group is revealed. The Black Stars lost only once in qualifying, sealing their fifth World Cup appearance.
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Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation. The 73-year-old Portuguese has substantial World Cup experience having previously overseen South Africa, Portugal and Iran on the global stage. The event was also attended by British-Ghanaian rugby player and advocate, Zainab Alema. Match officials, coaches and medical personnel received briefings on the communication needs of deaf athletes before the competition commenced.
Many of Africa’s finest footballers, such as Michael Essien, Asamoah Gyan, and Thomas Partey, began their journeys in football academies that helped them develop their skills and discipline. According to him, many talented young footballers across the country possess enormous potential but lack the necessary support systems and opportunities needed to fully develop their abilities. The competition forms part of the Union’s broader efforts to make rugby accessible to all, while supporting athlete development, safety and equal opportunities in sport. The Ghana Rugby Football Union said it intends to work with national and international partners to expand programmes for deaf athletes and promote greater inclusion in rugby across the country. The event began with a coaching session led by World Rugby Coach Educator and President of the Ghana Rugby Football Union, Rafatu Inusah.
Who will Ghana face in group stage of FIFA World Cup 2026?
“There is so much Ghanaian talent across the UK, and this initiative gives these young players the opportunity to connect with their roots while showcasing their abilities to the Ghana Football Association. This is only the beginning, and we believe the future is very bright,” he said. Solomon Agbasi has come up with decent performances for his club this season.
When is their first game?
- The Black Stars are going to face tough competition in the group stage as they will take on Panama, England and Croatia.
- WAFA has produced many players for the Ghanaian national team and European clubs.
- Ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Jeffrey Schlupp was left out of the final squad and his agent went public with accusations of corruption within the GFA.
- Ghana midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh has admitted he came close to walking away from football during his prolonged recovery from injury, describing the period as one of the most difficult phases of his career.
- But the structures that enabled interference have not been dismantled, they have simply received a new occupant at the top.
- The confirmation comes as a major blow for Ghana, with Djiku having been expected to play a key role at the World Cup thanks to his experience and leadership at the back.
- They defeated African Warriors Juniors 5-0 before overcoming Accra Majestics Juniors 19-0 in the Cup Final.
- In fact, Ghana have not won any of their matches since qualifying for the World Cup, in which they topped their group, and face Wales in a friendly on Tuesday.
- Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation.
- Ghana have appointed experienced Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the departure of Otto Addo earlier this month.
- With 51 goals for Ghana, Gyan remains the nation’s most prolific scorer, having represented the Black Stars across three FIFA World Cups and etched his name permanently into football history.
- Mohammed Kudus’ £55 million transfer to Tottenham demonstrates the financial opportunities available to Ghana’s elite prospects through strategic European moves.
The final list of players to represent the Ghana national football team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been unveiled. The Wales friendly on June 2 is probably Ghana’s final preparatory match before the World Cup. Virtually every major footballing nation calls up exactly the players they intend to take to the tournament for their final pre-tournament warm-up, sometimes with one or two additional cover options. They do not name 28 players, generate a week of squad controversy, and then quietly trim out two names.
You can click on players from the roster above and see available personal information such as nationality, date of birth, height, preferred foot, position, player value, transfer history etc. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed full confidence in players selected for the upcoming 2026 World Cup tournament.Ghana are set for their fifth World Cup appearance, after booking a… The comments are likely to generate fresh discussions among supporters, particularly because Paintsil has remained one of Ghana’s most productive attacking players abroad in recent years.
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The squad numbers for Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign have been published by FIFA following coach Carlos Queiroz’s confirmation of his final 26-man squad.The Black Stars, who have… Despite his omission, Paintsil is expected to return his full attention to LA Galaxy as the MLS season returns after the global showpiece, with the forward aiming to help the club climb the standings and challenge for honours. Several academies, such as Right to Dream and WAFA, integrate academics with football training. This academy is run by Accra Hearts of Oak SC, one of Ghana’s oldest football clubs.
- The former Chelsea fullback was in the 2022 World Cup squad but has featured in only one international for Ghana since.
- On average, tuition and training fees range between ₵5,000 to ₵50,000 per year in 2025.
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- You will discover the most reputable academies, their locations, fees, facilities, enrollment processes, and what sets each apart.
- To the GFA’s credit, they have gone to considerable lengths to explain the current process.
- His Shanghai SIPG contract paid £227,000 weekly, making him one of Africa’s highest-paid players during Asia’s football investment boom.
- “There is so much Ghanaian talent across the UK, and this initiative gives these young players the opportunity to connect with their roots while showcasing their abilities to the Ghana Football Association.
- Match officials, coaches and medical personnel received briefings on the communication needs of deaf athletes before the competition commenced.
- President Kurt Okraku took the media through the events leading up to Ghana’s campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 and other relevant matters regarding the team’s early exit from the competition.
Asamoah Gyan named Ambassador for Ghana’s national football teams
But it is symptomatic of a broader culture in which the GFA manages its own exposure rather than prioritising clarity for fans and respect for players. Players left out need a clear explanation as to why they have been left out, so does every supporter who has spent a week debating a squad that is not yet technically final. If the 28-man list is functionally the World Cup squad with only two spots to be resolved, why name 28 at all? The 28-man list announced on May 25 is not, strictly speaking, the final World Cup squad. Ghana are due to announce their official 26-man squad on June 1, a day before the friendly against Wales in Cardiff on June 2.
- Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan believes Antoine Semenyo will face more pressure than any other Black Stars player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the expectations that come…
- The Portuguese coach said player welfare had been prioritised after many squad members arrived in camp following the conclusion of their club commitments across Europe.
- Mohammed Salisu also missed out after the Monaco centre back ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in a Ligue 1 clash in January.
- Whether you are a parent supporting your child’s dream or a player aiming for greatness, this guide will help you make the right choice.
- Addressing the gathering, Kurt Okraku highlighted the importance of creating stronger bonds between Ghana and its emerging talents abroad.
- The performances of the deaf athletes, they noted, highlighted the potential for deaf rugby to grow in Ghana if given sustained support and competitive opportunities.
- His former £200,000 weekly Arsenal salary established him as Ghana’s highest-earning active player.
- Wales, meanwhile, are using the game as an opportunity to continue building under coach Craig Bellamy despite missing out on qualification for the World Cup.
- Ghana fixtures tab is showing the last 100 football matches with statistics and win/draw/lose icons.
- The GFA looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote football development in Ghana and engage with stakeholders through initiatives like the MEET THE PRESS series.
- When the match starts, you will be able to follow Wales vs Ghana live score, standings, minute by minute updated live results and match statistics.
Ghana squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 — Full list of players; Semenyo, Williams in; Kudus, Salisu out
- Ghana is known for its energetic playing style, technical skill, and passionate fan support.
- The team’s best World Cup run, the 2010 quarter-final came under Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac.
- “The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach will lead Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States,” the statement added.
- Ghana’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup boasts a strong core of players who played key roles during the country’s successful qualification campaign, with captain Jordan Ayew and…
- GFA Technical Director Prof. Mintah also expressed satisfaction with the quality displayed during the exercise.
- “To go into a World Cup warm-up friendly with players arriving the day before, it’s about innovations in the game.”
- “We want to play great football, we want to play to win and bring joy to our fans,” he said.
- The Deaf Rugby Team earned praise for its resilience and competitiveness despite limited access to some of the specialised equipment commonly used in deaf rugby competitions.
- The GFA President reflected on Gyan’s defining moments on football’s biggest stage, particularly his exploits at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- The 73-year-old’s appointment comes after Ghana parted ways with Otto Addo on March 31, following a poor run of results that included defeats to Germany and Austria in friendly matches.
- Conquerors SC Juniors emerged overall champions after winning all three of their matches.
- According to him, many talented young footballers across the country possess enormous potential but lack the necessary support systems and opportunities needed to fully develop their abilities.
- The event was also attended by British-Ghanaian rugby player and advocate, Zainab Alema.
“We must invest in young talents, create opportunities for them, and give them hope. I want to appeal to corporate Ghana to support football development because the future of our game depends on what we build today,” he added. For Queiroz, the role represents another chapter in a long international career, but also a unique challenge — guiding one of Africa’s most storied national teams on the world stage.
There are also all Ghana scheduled matches that they are going to play in the future. When the match starts, you will be able to follow Malawi vs Ghana live score, standings, minute by minute updated live results and match statistics. The confirmation comes as a major blow for Ghana, with Djiku having been expected to play a key role at the World Cup thanks to his experience and leadership at the back. Speaking after Ghana’s latest training session in Cardiff, Queiroz revealed that Djiku had already been replaced in the squad as preparations continue for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has revealed that Ghana only had their full squad available on the eve of Tuesday’s friendly against Wales, describing the situation as one of the…
“The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach will lead Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States,” the statement added. Across those appearances, he has overseen 13 World Cup matches, recording three wins, four draws and six defeats. GFA Technical Director Prof. Mintah also expressed satisfaction with the quality displayed during the exercise. The Association’s commitment to transparency and accountability was evident throughout the session, and the media could ask questions and seek clarification on various matters. Sign up for a FREE NewsNow account and get our daily email alert of the top transfer stories.
“People back home have questions about his performance when it comes to the national team, but as a former player and a striker, I have to be in his shoes. “To go into a World Cup warm-up friendly with players arriving the day before, it’s about innovations in the game.” Queiroz also criticised the scheduling of some domestic competitions, noting that certain countries continued to stage cup finals beyond FIFA’s recommended release period for international duty.
Her Excellency Sabah Zita Benson praised the unity and enthusiasm shown throughout the event and reaffirmed the High Commission’s support for the initiative. The event was expertly moderated by respected BBC presenter and Communications Director of Coachhene Sports Club, George Addo Jnr, whose leadership helped guide meaningful conversations around talent development, identity, and opportunity. Sign up for a FREE NewsNow account and get our email alert of the day’s top stories from the UK and around the world. Latest Ghana football news, including the latest updates on the Ghana Premier League, Ghana FA Cup, Ghana Super Cup, the CAF Champions League and much more. Even though he is the oldest player in the current generation, he is still a dependable source of motivation. Antoine Semenyo, an attacker for Manchester City, will supply firepower up top.
Richest Football Players in Ghana
“Let’s be realistic. More than 50% of the squad wasn’t here with us,” Queiroz said. It will be the first-ever meeting between the two nations and the first time Wales have hosted African opposition. The complications kept him out for an extended period, with the midfielder only returning to partial team training in late 2025 before resuming full training in January 2026. Kyereh first https://karelaunitedfun.com/stephen-amankona/ underwent surgery in February 2023 to repair the ligament damage.
Ghana Rugby promotes inclusion through competition for deaf and hearing athletes
On the field, the athletes displayed impressive skill, determination and sportsmanship. The Deaf Rugby Team earned praise for its resilience and competitiveness despite limited access to some of the specialised equipment commonly used in deaf rugby competitions. A major highlight of the competition was the participation of the Deaf Rugby Team, which was established through a collaboration between Coach Hakim and Madam Inusah. The initiative began four years ago in Kumasi to introduce deaf athletes to rugby and provide a pathway for their development in the sport. Ghanaian players earn $8,000-$15,000 per match depending on competition importance.
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The Portuguese coach declined to discuss the identity of Djiku’s replacement but made it clear that the squad had already been adjusted following the defender’s withdrawal. “We have to make a decision and replace Alexander Djiku. It doesn’t matter who was the player that I called, Djiku was replaced,” Queiroz said. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has confirmed that defender Alexander Djiku will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injury, ending speculation over the availability of one of the Black Stars’ most experienced defenders.
Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies. With 119 national team appearances, Jordan Ayew is Ghana’s second most capped player, trailing only his brother Andre Ayew by just one. Pot 4 status highlights the scale of the task, but does not limit Ghana’s potential.
On average, tuition and training fees range between ₵5,000 to ₵50,000 per year in 2025. He was unveiled at a ceremony in Accra on Wednesday (May 20, 2026) to signal a renewed commitment to strengthening support for the national teams ahead of Ghana’s fifth appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Organisers described the competition as a demonstration of how sport can break barriers and create opportunities for people of all abilities. The performances of the deaf athletes, they noted, highlighted the potential for deaf rugby to grow in Ghana if given sustained support and competitive opportunities. Top domestic players earn $20,000-$40,000 yearly, with most professionals making $10,000-$25,000.
He will also represent the Football Association at key engagements and champion initiatives designed to deepen national support for Ghana football. Established players in their late 20s often maximize earnings through lucrative Asian or Middle Eastern contracts. These leagues pay 2-3 times European salaries, allowing players to secure financial futures before retirement. AFCON campaigns provide the most lucrative national team opportunities for financial bonuses. The Black Stars had also lost their previous four games and failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations despite a squad featuring Premier League-based players such as Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo.
For now, however, another World Cup dream has slipped away from one of Ghana’s most exciting attacking talents. With the tournament set to be hosted in North America, some observers have questioned Paintsil’s exclusion, considering his familiarity with the environment and conditions. The winger has spent the last two seasons in the United States and would have arrived at the tournament already acclimatized to the region. Paintsil, on the other hand, has consistently featured for LA Galaxy and remains one of the club’s key attacking outlets whenever available. In contrast, Kamaldeen Sulemana endured a difficult season after securing a move to Atalanta Bergamo from Southampton. The winger was used sparingly throughout the campaign and made most of his appearances from the bench, struggling to establish himself as a regular starter.