2026 World Cup: I’m confident Black Stars can progress beyond the group stage - Karim Zito

Former Dreams FC and Asante Kotoko head coach Abdul Karim Zito has expressed confidence in Ghana's chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the Black Stars have what it takes to advance beyond the group stage if they approach the tournament with the right mindset.

The Black Stars, four-time African champions, are preparing for their fifth appearance at football's biggest tournament, where they have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

Ghana heads into the competition looking to improve on disappointing campaigns in Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022, where the team failed to progress beyond the group phase.

Speaking in an interview with Koforidua-based Swiit FM, Zito acknowledged the challenge posed by Ghana's opponents but remained optimistic about the team's prospects.

“It won’t be easy for the Black Stars considering the quality of our opponents, but I believe that with the right attitude, we can succeed," he said.

The experienced coach pointed to recent examples from Ghanaian football to highlight the unpredictable nature of the game.

"In the just-ended season, a second-division club shocked everyone by eliminating Hearts of Oak from the FA Cup, something nobody expected.

"This is football; anything can happen. I’m confident the team can progress beyond the group stage," Zito added.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. The Black Stars will then conclude their Group L fixtures against Croatia on June 27.

Led by head coach Carlos Queiroz, Ghana will be seeking to reach the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.