The Black Stars face their biggest test of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday when they take on England in a match that could have a major impact on the race for top spot in Group L.
Both teams began the tournament with victories. England defeated Croatia 4-2 in Dallas, while Ghana left it late to beat Panama 1-0 thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time winner in Toronto.
Although Ghana secured all three points, head coach Carlos Queiroz knows his side will need a much better performance against one of the tournament favourites.
The Black Stars struggled to create clear chances against Panama before Queiroz’s second-half substitutions changed the game. Brandon Thomas-Asante, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Prince Kwabena Adu all made positive impacts from the bench, with Thomas-Asante setting up Yirenkyi’s winner.
Their performances could give Queiroz selection headaches ahead of Tuesday’s clash, while Thomas Partey is expected to be available again after missing the opening match.
There is also uncertainty over goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi after he suffered an injury against Panama. Benjamin Asare replaced him at half-time and is on standby if Ati Zigi fails to recover in time.
England, meanwhile, enter the match full of confidence after scoring four goals against Croatia. Harry Kane struck twice, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also found the net.
However, England’s defence was far from convincing and conceded twice against Croatia, offering Ghana encouragement that opportunities could come if they are more clinical in attack.
England have their own fitness concerns. Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka trained separately as he continues to manage an Achilles problem, although head coach Thomas Tuchel expects him to be available later in the tournament.
For Ghana, captain Jordan Ayew will once again lead the side after becoming the Black Stars’ all-time most-capped player with 121 appearances in the victory over Panama, moving ahead of his brother Andrรยฉ Ayew.
Victory for Ghana would move the Black Stars closer to qualification for the Round of 32, while another positive result would also extend their unbeaten record in second matches at the FIFA World Cup.
