John Paintsil
Assistant coach of the Black Stars, John Paintsil, has voiced optimism about Ghana’s prospects at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the team carries both experience and ambition into the tournament.
The four-time African champions will be making their fifth appearance on football’s biggest stage. After failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations — their first absence in over two decades — Ghana responded strongly by sealing a return to the World Cup.
Paintsil acknowledged the disappointment of previous campaigns, including group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022, but believes the current squad is better equipped to compete.
“When it comes to the World Cup, Ghana is now experienced. We have been to the round of 16 in 2006 and the quarter-finals in 2010”.
A member of Ghana’s 2006 World Cup squad in Germany, the former Fulham and West Ham defender said expectations are understandably high heading into the tournament.
“Coming into this World Cup, the expectation is very high. I can’t wait to see how things will go on our side,” he added.
Paintsil also stressed that maintaining peak fitness levels will be crucial if the Black Stars are to make a deep run in the competition.
BY Wletsu Ransford