Former Black Stars defender Samuel Inkoom has thrown his weight behind Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations, insisting the national side is on the “right track” ahead of a daunting group stage.
With the tournament in North America fast approaching, the veteran right-back praised the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MoSR) for their meticulous approach to the campaign.
Speaking to Connect FM 97.1, Inkoom—a key figure in Ghana’s historic run to the 2010 World Cup quarter-finals—highlighted recent reinforcements to the technical bench as a signal of intent.
“The pre-tournament preparation by the GFA and the Sports Ministry has been great,” Inkoom said.
“The new addition to the technical team is a good one. Football is all about preparation, and I am happy we are preparing well.”
The 36-year-old, who earned 57 caps for his country, knows better than most the level of detail required to survive on the world stage. However, he issued a stern warning regarding tactical intelligence.
“If you’re going to the World Cup without properly monitoring your opponents, the tournament will be very difficult for you, and you won’t enjoy the tournament.”
The Black Stars face a formidable task in Group L, where they will meet 1966 winners England, 2018 finalists Croatia, and Panama.
Ghana’s journey begins in Canada on 17 June against Panama in Toronto. They then travel to the United States to face England in Boston on 23 June, before concluding the group stage against Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June.
Inkoom’s endorsement comes at a crucial time for head coach Otto Addo’s side. While the draw has placed Ghana against European heavyweights, the emphasis on scouting and technical depth suggests the GFA is desperate to avoid a repeat of the early exit in Qatar 2022.
By securing the foundation early, the Black Stars hope to arrive in Toronto not just as participants, but as a side capable of another “Golden Generation” upset.
