2026 World Cup: Black Stars must target next round qualification - Laryea Kingston

Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has urged the Black Stars to aim beyond mere participation at the 2026 World Cup, insisting the team must at least progress beyond the group stage.

Ghana, four-time African champions, will compete in the summer tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, the West African side faces a challenging path to the knockout rounds.

Kingston, who missed both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups despite his immense contribution, stressed Ghana’s standing in African football and the importance of setting ambitious targets.

“My expectations are simple. Ghana has a lot of respect in Africa — our mindset is not to just go and participate," the Uganda junior national team coach told Graphic Sports.

"We are expected to go out there and do well, and I believe we will at least make it out of the group,” he added.

The Black Stars will kick off their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England on June 23, and conclude the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

Preparations include a March training camp featuring friendlies against Austria and Germany, followed by a final warm-up against Mexico in May. Throughout the tournament, Ghana will be based at Bryant University in the United States.

After exiting at the group stage in both 2014 and 2022, the team will be aiming for a stronger, more competitive performance in North America.