Ghana’s “Tricky but Doable“ World Cup Group
By: Nana Kwasi Roka
Group L Draw: Ghana In Tough Group With England, Croatia and Panama
The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held Friday at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., has placed Ghana national football team alongside England national football team, Croatia national football team and Panama national football team in Group L – a challenging pool many are already dubbing a “group of death.”
Immediately after the draw, Ghana’s head coach Otto Addo struck a note of realism and ambition. He acknowledged the difficulty but insisted the group is manageable. “It’s a tough group, but it’s doable,” he said, stressing that a positive start – particularly in their opener against Panama – could set the tone for a successful campaign.
Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan, who was on stage at the draw, echoed that cautious optimism. While admitting the draw presents a significant challenge, he urged confidence. “It is a tricky group … we will do our possible best to qualify from the group stage,” Gyan said, calling on fans back home to rally behind the team.
From the other camps, England’s manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged Ghana as a “strong and proud” football nation deserving respect, warning that no side should be underestimated – including Ghana and Panama. Meanwhile, Panama’s coach Thomas Christiansen singled out Ghana’s attacking threat, specifically warning about Ghana’s forward Inaki Williams, whose pace and experience were described as a danger. “It will be a tough game,” Christiansen said.
Back home in Ghana, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive and hopeful. Many Ghanaians hailed the draw as an opportunity to make history, calling for united national support for the team. There is growing demand for the government and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to honour their promises and ensure the Black Stars go into the tournament well prepared and motivated. At the same time, supporters – and former players turned pundits – have cautioned against complacency, urging the team to play every match with intensity and heart, like “wounded lions.”
Yes, the group is daunting. But with ambition, focus, and the backing of the nation, many believe Ghana – the Black Stars – can still rise to the challenge and shine on football’s biggest stage.
