Sports

World Cup: Group L tough, but Black Stars can prevail – Paintsil

LA Galaxy forward Joseph Paintsil has expressed strong confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to advance beyond the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He insisted that Ghana possesses the quality, depth, and mindset needed to compete at the highest level.

Ghana, four-time African champions, will be making their fifth appearance at the World Cup after successfully qualifying for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Black Stars have been drawn into Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, a group widely regarded as one of the toughest in the competition.

Speaking in an interview with Citi Sports, which was closely followed by today.com.gh, Paintsil stressed that the team’s chances will largely depend on unity, discipline, and commitment from both players and management. “It all depends on the players and management coming together as a team to deliver for the country,” he said. “We have good players and a higher chance of qualifying for the next round if we do well.”

The winger also emphasized that success will come from action on the pitch rather than words. “Sometimes you don’t have to talk about it; you just have to know this is the job we have to do. We must give everything we have for Ghanaians and for the badge,” Paintsil added.

While acknowledging the difficulty of the group, he described the opportunity to face teams like England and Croatia as both exciting and motivating. “It’s going to be an amazing group stage for us playing against England and Croatia. We will do whatever we have to do, but we will leave the rest to God and see what will happen at the tournament,” he said.

The 27-year-old forward comes into the World Cup year with mixed fortunes at club level. He played a key role in LA Galaxy’s 2024 MLS Cup victory, but injuries limited his participation in the 2025 season, as the club missed the playoffs and finished third in the Leagues Cup. Despite these setbacks, Paintsil still managed 10 goals and two assists in 25 appearances across competitions, highlighting his attacking threat.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England on June 23 in Boston. The group-stage fixtures will conclude against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia, with qualification likely decided in the final match.