2026 World Cup: Kwasi Sibo hails Black Stars' commitment despite exit

Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo has lauded the Black Stars' performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the team's campaign reflected the commitment, sacrifice and determination of the players to represent the country with pride on football's biggest stage.

The 28-year-old Real Oviedo midfielder featured in every match for Ghana during the tournament in North America, emerging as one of the standout performers in the Black Stars' memorable goalless draw against England.

Sibo produced a disciplined display in midfield as Ghana frustrated one of the pre-tournament favourites to earn a valuable point.

Looking back on the encounter, Sibo stressed that maintaining concentration and discipline in a defensive setup required significant mental resilience, particularly when players spent long periods without possession.

“It takes much effort and sacrifice. Every player wants to touch the ball, and if you’re not touching the ball for some time, it affects your mentality. It takes great mental toughness, discipline, and dedication to defend from the first minute of a game to the final minutes,” Sibo told 3Sports.

The former Watanga FC midfielder described the clash against England as the highlight of his World Cup campaign, praising the team's execution of its tactical plan against elite opposition.

“The England match is the best game I played at the World Cup,” he said.

Sibo also believes the performance sent a strong message about the players' dedication to the national team.

“We showed Ghanaians that we are willing to give it our all for the nation,” he added.

Although Ghana's World Cup journey ended in the Round of 32, the Black Stars won plaudits for their spirited performances throughout the tournament after progressing beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010.

The team's attention has now turned to qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Ghana have been drawn in Group C alongside Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia and Somalia, with the qualifying campaign scheduled to begin in September.