Ghana’s high-performance coach John Paintsil has declared that the Black Stars have accumulated enough World Cup pedigree to dream big at the 2026 tournament, insisting the nation no longer approaches football’s biggest stage as wide-eyed newcomers.
Speaking to 3Sports, the former Ghana international pointed to the country’s history on the global stage as reason for optimism.
“When it comes to the World Cup, Ghana is now experienced,” Paintsil said.
He recalled Ghana’s impressive debut in 2006, where they became the only African team to reach the Round of 16, and the historic 2010 quarter-final run that united a continent. Those campaigns, he believes, have fundamentally shifted how Ghana should view itself in world football.
“We have enough experience to be in the semi-finals or final of the 2026 World Cup,” he declared boldly.
Paintsil stressed that past successes have laid a foundation but insisted that proper preparation remains essential. His focus, in particular, is on player fitness.
“I want all our players to be fit, so they’ll be ready for the call-up.”
With Ghana drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, the path ahead is challenging but not insurmountable. For Paintsil, the lessons of 2006 and 2010 are not just memoriesâthey are proof that Ghana belongs among football’s elite.
