2026 World Cup: Mohammed Kudus injury setback a major blow to Black Stars – Stephen Appiah
Vice Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Stephen Appiah, has acknowledged that Ghana would suffer a significant setback if Mohammed Kudus is ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 26-year-old forward is currently recovering from a hamstring injury that has cast serious doubt over his participation in the tournament, which will be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Kudus picked up the injury in January and was initially expected to return to full fitness by April. However, a relapse has stalled his recovery and now threatens to keep him out of the global showpiece.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Appiah—who captained Ghana at the country’s historic 2006 World Cup debut—said Kudus’ absence would be felt, but insisted the team must remain confident in its depth.
"We know his contribution to the team, but even during playing days, when a player is not available, we went ahead to play the game, so we should go ahead with that level of belief that when someone is not around, someone will be there to replace him," he said.
He stressed that football always presents opportunities for others when key players are unavailable, urging belief in the squad’s collective strength.
"Kudus is him, and when he is available, and he plays, he gives the team a lift, but we should just pray and see what happens because I am equally impressed with the performance of some of our players playing abroad," Appiah added.
The former Ajax and West Ham United attacker has featured 19 times this season, scoring twice before his injury setback.
Ghana have been drawn in Group L of the tournament alongside England, Croatia and Panama. The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17, before facing England in Boston on June 23, and wrapping up the group stage against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27.
The Black Stars are aiming to improve on recent World Cup performances after early exits in both the 2014 and 2022 editions.