Former Black Stars Management Committee member Ernest Thompson has expressed confidence in Otto Addo and his team, insisting the squad has the quality to compete with the world’s best at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana sealed qualification for the global tournament after topping their group with 25 points — a feat Thompson says reflects the team’s growing maturity and resilience.
Speaking on Sporty FM, the former Hearts of Oak board secretary noted that while the Black Stars can match most teams, there are a few he would prefer Ghana avoid in the group stage.
“I wouldn’t like us to play Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and most probably France,” he said.
“England, I don’t mind. When we meet England, it’s a different ballgame; it’s like a colonial master and his subject who wants to fight. We learned football from them, and I think we can rise up.”
Thompson also believes Ghana can challenge Brazil if Otto Addo adopts the right tactical approach. Reflecting on Ghana’s 3-0 loss to Brazil in the Round of 16 at the 2006 World Cup, he argued that the scoreline did not reflect the true balance of play.
“Brazil play just like us, with individual flair and creativity. But we didn’t play the right tactics. We defended too high and left spaces at the back. Ronaldo saw it and took advantage. It all depends on getting the tactics right,” he said.
Ghana will learn their group stage opponents when the World Cup draw takes place on December 5.
READ ALSO
2026 World Cup: Government owes Ghanaians smooth visa process – Kwakye Ofosu
I expect a lot from Otto Addo ahead of 2026 World Cup – Kofi Adams