Benjamin Asare Could Set an All-Time Ghana Record at the 2026 World Cup

Benjamin Asare Could Set an All-Time Ghana Record at the 2026 World Cup

  • Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare could set an unprecedented Black Stars record at the 2026 World Cup
  • The Black Stars were drawn into the same 2026 World Cup group as England, Croatia, and Panama
  • Asare has worked tirelessly and shown unwavering dedication throughout his career, putting in countless hours of training to reach the level
  • A former Hearts of Oak goalkeeper has thrown his support behind Benjamin Asare to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Benjamin Asare, the veteran Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, is enjoying a meteoric rise in Ghanaian football. Known for his agility, composure, and leadership at the back, Asare has quickly become one of the Premier League’s standout talents.

His consistent performances over the seasons have put him on the radar for national team selection, and now, he could soon achieve a historic milestone for the Black Stars on the world stage.

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Benjamin Asare could become the first home-based player to start a World Cup match for the Black Stars of Ghana in next year's tournament. Image credit: Black Stars
Source: Getty Images

At 33, Asare’s confidence and leadership at the back have drawn comparisons to some of Ghana’s most accomplished goalkeepers. He has shown remarkable maturity for his age, often commanding his defense and making crucial saves in high-stakes matches.

His rise has not gone unnoticed, as he has been regularly called up for national team training camps and matches, gradually positioning himself as the Black Stars' first-choice custodian.

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Benjamin Asare's potential World Cup milestone

Historically, Ghana’s World Cup squads have relied on goalkeepers who play for clubs outside the country. In 2006 and 2010, Richard Kingston held the number one spot while playing for Ankaraspor in Turkey and Wigan Athletic, respectively, as noted in Transfermarkt records.

According to ESPN, Fatau Dauda was the starting goalkeeper in 2014 while at South African side Orlando Pirates, and in 2022, Lawrence Ati-Zigi guarded the posts for St. Gallen in Switzerland.

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Each of these goalkeepers represented the national team while playing abroad, continuing a long-standing trend in Ghanaian football.

However, if Benjamin Asare is selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup while still playing for Hearts of Oak, he could quietly make history. No local-based goalkeeper has ever started a World Cup match for the Black Stars.

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Ghana and Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. Image credit: Black Stars
Source: Twitter

Otto Addo's men face Panama on June 17 in Toronto before taking on England five days later in Foxborough and meeting Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.

Richmond Ayi backs Asare to shine

Meanwhile, speaking to YEN.com.gh, former Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, Richmond Ayi, said he has no doubts Asare would succeed at the World Cup if he is selected to start for the Black Stars.

''We have all seen his progress, his determination, and most importantly, his quality as a goalkeeper. Everybody has their chances in life, and right now, it is Asare's time, so let him enjoy it. I have heard people debate his position at the World Cup, but for me, he is out No.1 as things stand.''

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While the Ghana's squad has yet to be finalised, Asare’s consistent form and growing experience put him in strong contention to achieve this milestone, potentially inspiring a new generation of homegrown goalkeepers.

Benjamin Asare saves penalty against South Korea

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Benjamin Asare wowed fans with a stunning penalty save during Ghana’s Kirin Cup match against South Korea on November 18 in Seoul.

Supporters hailed the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper for his composure and match-turning performance despite the team’s defeat.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Gariba Raubil avatar

Gariba Raubil (Sports Editor) Gariba Raubil is a skilled content writer and journalist with over 14 years of experience in sports journalism. He is a CAF and FIFA-accredited reporter and has been a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) since 2020. He has covered several international tournaments including two All Africa Games in 2015 and 2023. He also reported on the 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and the 2018 Women’s AFCON. Email: gariba.raubil@yen.com.gh