2026 World Cup: No friendly for Black Stars before opener against Panama – GFA Confirms

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that the Black Stars will not play any friendly match before their opening game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The team had been expected to feature in a final warm-up fixture following a 1-1 draw against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium, with Jamaica or Honduras initially lined up as possible opponents.

However, plans collapsed after Honduras withdrew, leaving the schedule in limbo.

GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says no alternative fixture has been secured at this stage, effectively ruling out another preparatory match.

“At this point, it is a big no [playing another friendly game]. We don't have any game on paper at this point. It doesn't look likely, but I am not in the position to rule out anything yet.”

He added that any late change would depend on input from the technical team led by head coach Carlos Queiroz.

“If it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play, maybe a mid to low intensity game, I don't think he will accept a higher intensity game at this point," he said.

“But if it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play a mid to low intensity game, we will make it public. At this point, there is nothing of the sort on paper.”

Asante Twum stressed that preparations remain a joint effort between the Ghana FA and the technical team, with decisions guided by what is best for the squad.

“If the coach wants a game, we arrange. If he doesn't need a game, we move. We told him about a second game before we played against Wales. We were all looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it didn't happen, and collectively we have decided to move on. So it's not about only the coach or the FA. We work hand in hand to ensure that the best possible arrangements are made for the team.”

Ghana will head into the tournament in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. Their campaign begins on June 17 against Panama at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and Croatia on June 27.

Under Carlos Queiroz, the Black Stars will be aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.