FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed delight and anticipation ahead of the official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying he ‘cannot wait’ to see who Ghana will face in the group stage.
The Black Stars sealed qualification for next year’s global showpiece with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday night at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The result not only confirmed Ghana’s place at the tournament, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but also saw them top Group I with 25 points.
In a congratulatory video message, Infantino commended Ghana’s remarkable achievement and acknowledged the country’s enduring impact on world football.
“Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States,” he said.
Reflecting on Ghana’s historic quarterfinal run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, Infantino expressed optimism about the team’s future prospects.
“We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.
“See you very soon and well. Congratulations,” Infantino added.
The official draw for the 2026 World Cup will be staged at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
After exiting at the group stage of the 2022 tournament in Qatar, head coach Otto Addo and his charges will aim for a stronger showing on football’s biggest stage.
Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.
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