This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration of leading media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. The tournament starts on June 11, and previews from three countries are being published daily.
Strategic Approach
Ghana’s recent warm-up match against Wales in Cardiff provided insights into the tactics of their new coach, Carlos Queiroz. The first half mirrored the struggles of the previous regime under Otto Addo, with a vulnerable low block and poorly executed pressing. However, the second half showcased a significant tactical shift, highlighting a more organized mid-block and synchronized pressing, alongside improved defensive support for the full-backs.
Queiroz has opted for a back four formation, departing from Addo’s back three strategy. During the match in Cardiff, he deployed a double pivot of Elisha Owusu and a visibly off-form Thomas Partey, whose substitution in the second half for Caleb Yirenkyi was noteworthy. The pairing of Yirenkyi, who found the net for Ghana, and Kwasi Sibo injected vitality and intensity into the midfield.
On the flanks, Ernest Nuamah and Christopher Bonsu Baah have emerged as strong contenders for the right-wing position. While Baah performed admirably on the left against Wales, Antoine Semenyo is likely to secure the right-wing spot. This situation may see Iñaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Abdul Fatawu biding their time for opportunities.
One of Ghana’s pressing issues is their goal-scoring ability. Jordan Ayew, who was instrumental with 14 goal contributions during qualifying, managed only six goals for Leicester last season and played less than half the games for a team that faced relegation to League One. There is hope that Manchester City’s Semenyo, who netted 17 goals and provided four assists in the Premier League, will bolster Ghana’s attacking options.
In Group L, Ghana is set to face England, Croatia, and Panama. They possess sufficient talent to make a significant impact in North America, having reached the quarter-finals in 2010, which remains their best World Cup performance.
About the Coach
Carlos Queiroz brings a wealth of experience, having coached at prestigious clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United, alongside four World Cup campaigns — with Portugal in 2010 and then Iran in 2014, 2018, and 2022. He regards this role as his most formidable challenge yet.
“After eight national teams and a couple of important competitions, this is the biggest challenge of my entire career, and I am ready for that,”
Queiroz stated. “When you work for Ghana, they don’t expect anything different than win, win, win. That is why it is the biggest challenge.”
In an alternate reality, Antoine Semenyo could be representing England at the World Cup, likely as a starter. Instead, he will don Ghana’s gold jersey in Foxborough on June 23, as the Black Stars take on the Three Lions. Despite a disappointing international record with only three goals in 34 appearances, Semenyo’s impressive form for Bournemouth and Manchester City, which included 17 goals and four assists, positions him as a key attacking threat for Ghana.
Player to Watch
Caleb Yirenkyi has drawn comparisons to Michael Essien due to his exceptional tackling, passing, and ability to advance the ball into the opponent’s half. He blends athleticism with technical skill, proving effective in both defensive and offensive roles. Although a reported move to Brighton fell through in January, interest in the 20-year-old midfielder from Nordsjælland is expected to remain high. His club and national teammate Prince Amoako shared his thoughts on Yirenkyi:
“He doesn’t see himself the way we see him because he’s a very humble guy. But Caleb is insane, he’s crazily good. He’s a superstar, and I tell him so every time.”
Key Player
Following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana turned to Benjamin Asare, who marked a significant milestone as the first goalkeeper from the Ghana Premier League to start a competitive match for the national team since 2015. Although his performance was not extraordinary, Asare effectively made the necessary saves and restored some confidence in a previously shaky defense. Concerns remain regarding his command of aerial balls, but his quick reflexes, agility, and solid distribution helped transform a defense that had conceded 13 goals in nine competitive matches into a unit that allowed only one goal in six World Cup qualifiers.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
The Ghana Supporters Union is likely to be one of the most vibrant fan groups at the tournament. Their live band creates an exhilarating atmosphere wherever they go. Although FIFA has prohibited musical instruments in stadiums, the Supporters Union has demonstrated creativity in the past, ensuring that they will bring their energy along with Ghana’s uplifting “Our mission is here to create entertainment, to make people happy. To bring smiles to all people for 90 minutes.” music, characterized by its rhythmic, chant-like quality. The Ghanaian government is financially supporting thousands of fans to travel to the tournament, raising over $3 million for this initiative.
US Relations
Ghana’s relationship with the United States has been cautious. The country has encountered trade tariffs, visa disputes, and recently opted out of a significant US health and aid agreement, citing demands for access to private health data from US negotiators. The Ghanaian government, which accepted deportees under Trump’s immigration policies last year, is navigating these complex dynamics carefully. As for Carlos Queiroz, his extensive experience with Iran may add to the sensitivity of the situation, but he is unlikely to make provocative statements. In 2022, as the coach of Iran, Queiroz opted not to engage in the political tensions surrounding their match against the USA, stating:
“Our mission is here to create entertainment, to make people happy. To bring smiles to all people for 90 minutes.”
