Jordan Ayew Rallies Black Stars: 'We Want to Make Ghana Proud at World Cup 2026'

Jordan Ayew has spoken passionately about Ghana's upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, urging the entire nation to rally behind the Black Stars as they prepare for the biggest stage in world football. The Leicester City and Ghana captain — one of the most experienced Black Stars players in the current squad — made the comments during a press briefing following the team's final pre-tournament preparation camp in Accra. "We know what this means to every Ghanaian," Ayew told reporters. "We know the expectations. We know the history — the pain of 2022, the heartbreak of 2010. All of that is behind us. What we have now is a chance — and we intend to make the most of it. We want to make Ghana proud." Ghana's World Cup 2026 Campaign Ghana have been placed in Group F alongside Brazil, Norway, and Panama. It is arguably one of the toughest groups in the tournament, with Brazil the overwhelming favourites and Norway — led by Erling Haaland — considered the second-strongest side. But Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has expressed cautious optimism. Speaking alongside Ayew, he noted that Ghana have quality in key areas and that the team's collective spirit is at its highest in years. "Every World Cup is a new story," Addo said. "We go into this with respect for every opponent, but fear of none." Key Players to Watch Jordan Ayew (captain, Leicester City) — Experience, leadership, and the ability to drop deep and create. Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United) — The Black Stars' most electric talent. Will be key to unlocking defences. Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth) — Electric pace on the wing; a threat on the counter-attack. Ibrahim Osman (Brighton) — Emerging star; considered one of Africa's brightest young talents. Abdul Salis Samed (RC Lens) — Midfield enforcer who adds defensive cover and range of passing. Lawrence Ati-Zigi (FC Saint-Gallen) — Shot-stopper who has been Ghana's most consistent keeper. Ghana's History at the World Cup 2006 (Germany) — Ghana's debut; reached Round of 16 — historic achievement. 2010 (South Africa) — Reached the quarter-final; heartbreakingly eliminated on penalties by Uruguay. 2014 (Brazil) — Group stage exit; internal controversy overshadowed performance. 2022 (Qatar) — Group stage exit; lost to Uruguay 2-0 and failed to progress. The 2026 World Cup represents a chance for Ghana to recapture the magic of 2010 — and Jordan Ayew is determined to help write that story. "This group has the hunger," Ayew said. "Believe in us. We will give everything." Ghana's first match at World Cup 2026 is scheduled for June 18 in Dallas, Texas — against Panama.