Ghana: Black Stars Aiming High

Ghana are no strangers to the World Cup stage. Having qualified for the fifth time, the Black Stars bring a proud history to this global tournament. South Africa 2010 will forever be remembered. Then, Ghana were on the cusp of becoming the first African team to reach a World Cup semi-finals but were undone by Uruguay in controversial circumstances. With the scores tied at 1-1, Luis Suárez deliberately handled the ball on the line at the end of extra time to deny what appeared a certain goal for the Black Stars. Asamoah Gyan struck the crossbar on the delayed penalty and Uruguay advanced in subsequent shootout. The past and present are staring the team in the face. After qualifying for a second consecutive World Cup, Ghana’s objective is to replicate their 2010 peak. That ambition must start with navigating Group L, which contains Panama, England and Croatia. Croatia, runners-up in Russia 2018 and third-placed in Qatar 2022, have reached the semi-finals in half of their World Cup appearances. Panama, only previously at Russia 2018, return after establishing themselves as one of Central America’s top teams in recent years. England, appearing at its 17th World Cup and eighth in succession, will be desperate to end a 60- year wait for the trophy since 1966. Ghana therefore have a tough challenge and have been preparing to counter every threat. Coach Carlos Queiroz has retained a strong contingent: Gideon Mensah, Baba Rahman, Thomas Partey, Alidu Seidu, Issa Haku Fa...