The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has defended its decision to expand the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following mixed reactions from sections of the football public. The additions are part of preparations for the tournament to be staged in North America.
Responding to the concerns, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum explained that the appointments form a deliberate strategy to strengthen the team’s backroom structure and enhance performance at the global stage. He stressed that success at the World Cup requires not only talented players but also top-level technical and support staff.
The newly appointed personnel include Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and Alain Ravera as assistant coaches, José Daniel Martínez Alfonso as scout and video analyst, Carlos Lozano Romero as team physiotherapist, and Dwayne Peasah Paa Kwesi as performance coach. According to the GFA, the blend of international and local expertise is expected to improve tactical preparation, player conditioning, and overall team efficiency.
Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, 2026, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27. As part of preparations, head coach Otto Addo and his squad are scheduled to regroup in March for international friendly matches against Austria and Germany.
Henry Asante Twum, Comms Director – GFA
