Ghana to include three home-based players in Black Stars squad for 2026 World Cup

Ghana are reportedly set to include three home-based players in their Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The global tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded 48-team format, with Ghana securing one of Africas automatic qualification spots.The Black Stars have been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside European heavyweights England, 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia, and Panama.Ghana will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before taking on England on June 23 in Boston. Their group stage journey will conclude on June 27 in Philadelphia with a clash against Croatia.According to reports, Queiroz is actively considering players from the Ghana Premier League as part of his final squad selection, with three local-based footballers expected to make the cut.The move is seen as both a technical decision and a strategic step that reflects growing interest in domestic talent.A key factor behind the consideration is the FIFA Club Benefits Programme (CBP), which compensates clubs for releasing players to the World Cup. This years tournament will see FIFA pay approximately $11,000 per day to players respective clubs for the duration of national team involvement.This means that a group-stage exit, lasting roughly three weeks could see each club earn compensation for around 22 days of a players participation.For Ghanaian clubs operating under tight financial conditions, this represents a potentially significant boost. The programme is designed to recognise the role clubs play in developing and supplying players for international duty, while also ensuring they benefit financially from FIFAs flagship competition.Beyond the financial angle, the inclusion of local players would mark a notable statement about the quality of Ghanas domestic league.Queiroz has already submitted a provisional squad list to FIFA, with final adjustments expected as the tournament approaches. The final selection must meet FIFAs squad regulations before the Black Stars depart for North America. 



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