World Cup 2026: Qualifying from group stage would be a dream, says Asamoah Gyan

Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has set his sights on a crucial milestone for Ghana at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup: escaping the group stage.

Speaking at the unveiling of the team’s new Puma jersey in New York, Ghana’s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup expressed his confidence in the squad’s ability to progress to the knockout rounds.

Ghana has been drawn into Group L, where they will face Panama, Croatia, and England. The much-anticipated clash with England is scheduled for June 23.

While acknowledging the high-profile nature of the fixture against the Three Lions, Gyan emphasized that the primary objective is to advance beyond the first round.

“Playing with England is very good, and people are optimistic about that game,” Gyan stated. “I just want Ghana to qualify from the group stage.”

The former captain, often known as ‘Baby Jet,’ remains optimistic about the Black Stars’ chances in the tournament. His comments underscore the importance of reaching the next stage, a feat Ghana has achieved only twice before—in 2006 and 2010—since their debut appearance.

Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama, followed by the match against England and concluding the group phase against Croatia.