2026 World Cup: “I’m not fully convinced about this team” – Nii Lante Vanderpuye casts doubt over Black Stars’ prospects

Former Ghana Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has raised concerns over the Black Stars’ readiness for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he is not fully convinced the team is equipped to make a strong impact at the tournament.

Ghana, making their fifth appearance at the global showpiece, have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, with expectations to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

However, Vanderpuye believes the current squad lacks the stability and cohesion seen in previous generations.

“I’m not 100% confident in our team; I’m not. I am a Ghanaian, but I’m confident in them," he told Citi FM.

He compared the current setup unfavourably with past World Cup squads, pointing to inconsistency and disruptions in team management.

"The confidence I had in the team that went to the 2006 World Cup, 2010 and even 2014 World Cup, it’s not the same as now due to the fact that this team has not been a consistent team.

“There’s been too many mix-ups in this team, and worst of all, look at the change in the timing in the change of the technical department, and unfortunately, we are looking at a team that is training under this coach for just about a month,” Vanderpuye added.

The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. They will conclude their group stage matches against Croatia on June 27.

Ghana have already arrived in Toronto and are expected to hold a mandatory training session ahead of their opening fixture on Wednesday.