Otto Addo
Ghana head coach Otto Addo says his team will approach every opponent with full respect as the Black Stars prepare for a challenging Group L campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The four-time African champions have been drawn against England, Croatia and Panama for next summer’s tournament, a group Addo believes demands absolute focus from his players.
Speaking to the Ghana FA after the draw, the 50-year-old coach emphasised the need for discipline and consistency throughout the group stage.
“I look forward to every game as special,” he said. “It is very important for us that we don’t underrate any team. For sure, England is the favourite in that group, but for me as a coach, I’m looking at each and every game equally.”
Addo highlighted Ghana’s opening match as a potential tone-setter for the rest of the campaign.
“I’m hoping that we have a good start against Panama — that will be very, very crucial,” he stressed. “A strong start will make the other games a little more relaxed and easier for the players psychologically. We will use the March window for test matches and then assess where we are.”
Reflecting on the Black Stars’ qualification journey, Addo expressed satisfaction with their performance.
“We did very well in the qualifiers. We didn’t lose a single official game — one draw and the rest were wins. It was a good year in 2025 after a difficult 2024,” he said.
The coach also praised the cohesion within his youthful squad, noting their improved unity and growing maturity. “Even though we have a very young team, we really did well. There was good harmony and good union.”
Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17, before facing England in Boston on June 23. Their final group game comes against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
BY Wletsu Ransford