The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has issued a defiant message of confidence ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, vowing that the side will be “ready to fight” when they arrive in North America.
Speaking to GFA Media, Okraku revealed that intensive “behind-the-scenes” preparations are already in motion to ensure the Black Stars avoid the pitfalls of previous tournaments.
With Ghana drawn in a challenging group, the GFA chief is prioritising a “unity of purpose” to propel the team back to the heights of their 2010 quarter-final glory.
While fans may have their eyes on glamour ties against European giants, Okraku was quick to point out that Ghana’s tactical focus is firmly on their opening opponents.
He noted that although the team has three big games, the clash against Panama represents the biggest game in his opinion.
He added that the Black Stars will be ready for the challenge, effectively playing “home away from home” given the expected support in the United States.
His comments signal a strategic shift toward treating every group-stage opponent with equal weight, particularly as Ghana looks to navigate a multi-city schedule across the host nations.
Okraku’s vision for the 2026 squad is built on discipline and national pride. He issued a clear warning to any players looking to join the setup solely for the glamour of the World Cup stage, stating that he is very positive that if all the top players arrive safely in the US, Ghana will fight for the shirt.
“I am very positive that if we get all our players on board—if all our top players arrive safely with us in the US—Ghana will fight for the shirt. That’s what I know.”
The President has been vocal in recent weeks about the selection policy, insisting that “mercenaries” or those who have previously snubbed the national team will find no place in head coach Otto Addo’s final squad.
He emphasised that passion, aggression, and desire are the non-negotiable requirements for anyone wearing the Black Stars colours.
To back his rhetoric with action, the GFA has confirmed a high-octane friendly schedule to prepare the squad for the rigours of the tournament.
The team will first test the European blueprint against Austria and Germany this March, followed by a final North American warm-up against Mexico in May.
Okraku also threw his full weight behind head coach Otto Addo, describing the team as a “work in progress” that deserves the nation’s patience and prayers.
He concluded by likening the squad to soldiers going to war, stating his mission is to lead Ghana to glory on the world stage.
