2026 World Cup: Adjetey and Jerome will complement each other – Ex-Ghana midfielder Godwin Attram
Former Ghana international Godwin Attram has thrown his support behind central defenders Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku, urging the pair to sustain their growing partnership ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The duo featured together for the first time in Ghana’s friendly against Wales last month during preparations for the tournament in North America.
Their selection came as a response to injuries to key defenders Mohammed Salisu and Alexander Djiku, opening the door for the new pairing under head coach Carlos Queiroz.
Despite lingering concerns about Ghana’s defensive structure, Attram said the performance offered encouraging signs, particularly the composure and understanding shown by the young centre-backs.
He noted that Ghana operated in a medium block and applied pressure selectively, but pointed to slower transitions after winning possession as an area needing improvement.
"We defended in a medium block and looked to press in specific areas before winning possession," Attram told Graphic Sports.
"The problem in the first half was that our transitions were too slow. Once we won the ball, we continued circulating it instead of attacking quickly, which was the objective."
Attram, however, was impressed by the defensive discipline on display and believes continuity could make Ghana more secure at the back during the tournament.
“If Adjetey and Jerome continue to show that level of awareness and discipline, I do not think Ghana will have any major problems defensively during the tournament.
He highlighted their organisation, dual-winning ability and mutual cover as standout qualities, especially in the air.
"There were very few mistakes [against Wales], and they complemented each other effectively," he said.
"They won important duels, intercepted passes and covered for one another. Their aerial dominance was particularly noteworthy for the retired star.
"As the game progressed, Wales realised they were unlikely to win high balls and started looking for different attacking solutions. That is what good defenders do. They read the game, adapt and understand what opponents are trying to achieve," he added.
Ghana, four-time African champions, will be making their fifth World Cup appearance in the United States, Canada and Mexico. They have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group fixture comes against Croatia on June 27.