By: Kwame Bediako
Black Stars and Tottenham midfielder Mohammed Kudus has delivered a clear message to their opponents in the 2026 World Cup group stage after the Ghana were drawn alongside England, Panama, and Croatia.
Following Friday’s draw in Washington, Kudus expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to compete with some of the world’s top footballing nations.
“Just qualifying for the World Cup is already a big statement from us,” Kudus stated.
“And it’s good that we face England in the group. It will be an exciting match. I’m looking forward to it. We fully understand the team we’ll be up against and their quality, and we will be ready for it,” he added.
Ghana’s tournament begins on June 17 against Panama in Toronto, a match Kudus expects to be a crucial launching pad for their World Cup journey.
The Black Stars then face England on June 23 in Boston, followed by a final group clash with Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27. Kudus believes each game will test Ghana’s progress on the world stage.
The 2026 edition of the World Cup will be historic, spreading across the United States, Canada, and Mexico with an expanded roster of 48 teams.
This expansion also grants Africa a record nine automatic qualifying slots, offering more opportunities for the continent’s football powers.
As Ghana gears up for its fifth World Cup appearance, Kudus is determined to help the Black Stars exceed their previous best a quarterfinal finish in 2010.
“We know what it takes to compete at this level, and we’re prepared to show the world what Ghanaian football is about,” he concluded.
