Former Black Stars assistant coach, Maxwell Konadu, believes the current crop of players has the qualities to perform at the 2026 World Cup.
The four-time African champions have enhanced their chances of qualification with back-to-back wins against Chad and Madagascar in Matchdays 5 and 6 of the qualifiers during the March international break.
Ghana secured an emphatic 5-0 win over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium and a 3-0 victory over Madagascar in Morocco.
Speaking to Graphic Sports, Konadu said the team has the potential to match world-class teams ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup, citing the quality of players and the renewed national support behind the team.
He added that while not all of the Black Stars players are plying their trade at elite European clubs, they are competing in top leagues—an indication of their readiness to face global football powerhouses.
“We have top players. Even though not all of them are in top clubs, many are playing in the best leagues in Europe,” the former Asante Kotoko gaffer said. “That alone should tell you that we have quality. It’s just a matter of getting them together and instilling the right attitude,” he added.
Konadu also pointed out that the back-to-back wins were a crucial morale booster following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to him, the win restored confidence in the squad and reignited national hopes of a World Cup berth.
“That first win was everything. It brought back belief in the team. Now, we are confident that Ghana can qualify for the World Cup,” he stated.
He further noted the massive support from the Ghana Football Association (GFA), the government, and fans as key factors in the team’s recent turnaround.
Konadu emphasized that national unity and motivation have a direct impact on performance, regardless of which players are selected.
“When the players know the country is behind them, they will give everything. But if the spirit of the nation is missing, it doesn’t matter who you invite—they will struggle,” he said.
“It’s about getting the support of every Ghanaian, the FA, and the ministry. Without that, forget it.”
He also called for unity among the national team’s management, warning that internal divisions can derail even the most talented squads.
The Black Stars, who now sit at the top of Group I with 15 points, are set to face Chad and Mali in their next round of qualifiers in September.
Source: Adomonline