2026 World Cup: Ghana’s Preparations Suffer Major Blow Ahead of Panama Opener
- Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have hit turbulence before the opening fixture against Panama
- The Black Stars are winless in their last six matches, raising questions over their readiness for the global stage
- Despite the shaky build-up, Carlos Queiroz will be hoping his side can regroup in time to navigate the group stage
- Seasoned Ghanaian coach Prince George Koffie expressed concern over the lack of preparatory games in an interview with YEN.com.gh
Ghana’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has encountered an unexpected snag just days before their opening Group L clash against Panama, raising fresh questions about their readiness for the tournament.
The Black Stars, four-time African champions, are heading into the global showpiece with limited match sharpness and growing uncertainty around their final preparations.
Carlos Queiroz’s side has managed only one fixture in the lead-up to the tournament – a 1-1 draw with Wales on June 2 – leaving concerns about rhythm and cohesion at a critical stage.
Source: Getty Images
Ghana’s World Cup preparations hit by setback
Ghana was expected to step up their preparation with a behind-closed-doors friendly against Honduras on June 9 at the American University Stadium in Virginia.
However, that plan has reportedly collapsed.
According to Ghana Media Hub, the Honduran Football Federation withdrew from the fixture following their own international commitments, including a recent 2-0 defeat to Argentina in Texas.
The cancellation leaves the Black Stars scrambling for a replacement opponent, with suggestions that a club side could now be considered.
As it stands, no new fixture has been confirmed, turning what was meant to be a final rehearsal into an open-ended wait.
The match was originally designed as Ghana’s last tune-up before facing Panama, making its cancellation a significant disruption.
Concerns grow over Ghana's readiness before WC
The setback adds to wider worries surrounding Ghana’s form and preparation.
Since securing qualification in October 2025, the team has played six matches, drawing one and losing the rest.
Their Group L rivals, meanwhile, arrive in stronger competitive shape.
Source: Getty Images
Panama have tested themselves against teams like Brazil, Bosnia & Herzegovina and the Dominican Republic in the build-up to the tournament.
Croatia have also faced high-level opposition, while England recently recorded a 1-0 win over New Zealand and still have one final warm-up against Costa Rica.
Ghana’s situation is further complicated by injuries to key figures, including first-choice centre-backs and influential midfielder Mohammed Kudus, according to Ghanasoccernet.
Queiroz, who replaced Otto Addo in April, has had limited time on the training pitch with his strongest available squad, and the lack of consistent action has left supporters uneasy as the countdown to June 17 continues.
Still, there is quiet belief within the camp that solutions can be found quickly enough to steady the ship before kickoff against Panama.
Is Ghana the least prepared side for World Cup?
While belief exists, there is also the uncomfortable reality that Ghana head into the World Cup as one of the least-prepared teams in the tournament.
The Black Stars have played just one match in the build-up to their opening Group L clash against Panama, leaving concerns over their readiness on the biggest stage.
Speaking to YEN.com.gh, coach Prince George Koffie admitted that the situation poses a significant tactical challenge for Carlos Queiroz.
"This is a huge concern from a tactical perspective. While Carlos Queiroz is undoubtedly an experienced manager, he still needs matches to fine-tune his tactics and fully implement his philosophy," coach Prince said.
"Considering he only took charge of the Black Stars in April, it would have been ideal for him to have two or three additional games before the Panama encounter.
"With this setback, he will now have to rely heavily on what he has taught the players on the training ground and hope they can translate those ideas into a real-match situation. Hopefully, it does not come back to haunt us."
Supercomputer rates Ghana's World Cup chances
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Opta's supercomputer simulation has given Ghana low chances of making history at the 2026 World Cup.
The Black Stars are also out of form, having not won a match since October 2025, despite a new coach bringing energy to the dressing room.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: godwin.tagoe@yen.com.gh.
Prince George Koffie (CAF License 'A' International Football Coach) Prince George Koffie is a seasoned CAF License "A" Professional Football Coach with three decades of experience, ranging from grassroots development to international competitions, including a CAF Champions League campaign. He excels in both player development and competitive tactical coaching.
