Elisha Owusu targets playing at 2026 World Cup with Black Stars

Ghana midfielder Elisha Owusu has set his sights on representing the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the tournament as the pinnacle of every footballer’s career.

Owusu, who made his debut for Ghana in 2022, played a key role in helping the national team qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, he did not feature in any of the group-stage matches.

Now plying his trade with French side AJ Auxerre, the 27-year-old has already featured in two matches during the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

As the qualifiers progress, Owusu is determined to play a more prominent role.

“The World Cup is the biggest tournament for a footballer because you dream of it from childhood,” Owusu told Flashscore.

“Playing for your country at the biggest stage, with everyone watching, it’s crazy, and you feel proud. It’s difficult to describe such a feeling in words.”

Owusu’s road to the 2026 World Cup has not been without obstacles. In March 2025, he was sidelined by injury and missed Ghana’s qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. Despite the disappointment, the midfielder remains focused on his goal.

“I am looking forward to the 2026 World Cup. Every Ghanaian player is working hard to have the chance to be in the final squad. When you work hard, you want to be in the squad for the World Cup. I train every day and work hard to try and be in the squad for the tournament next year,” he added.

Ghana currently leads Group I of the African qualifiers after securing consecutive victories over Chad and Madagascar in Matchdays 5 and 6.

With crucial fixtures against Chad and Mali scheduled for September, Owusu is expected to return to the squad and bolster Ghana’s midfield options.