Otto Addo warns every 2026 World Cup group team is dangerous

Ghana opens its 2026 World Cup campaign on June 17 in Toronto, with coach Otto Addo pledging focus and respect as the Black Stars face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.

Addo stressed that concentration must be maintained throughout the group stage, warning against under‑estimating any opponent. “I look forward to every game as special,” he said.

“It is very important for us that we don’t underrate any team. For sure, England is the favourite in that group, but for me as a coach, I’m looking at each and every game equally,” Addo explained.

The opening fixture against Panama, he noted, will be crucial for building momentum. “I’m hoping that we have a good start against Panama — that will be very, very crucial,” the coach said.

A strong start, Addo believes, will ease the psychological pressure for the later matches. “A strong start will make the other games a little more relaxed and easier for the players psychologically,” he added, noting that the March window will be used for test matches and assessment.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Addo expressed satisfaction with the qualifiers. “We did very well in the qualifiers. We didn’t lose a single official game — one draw and the rest were wins. It was a good year in 2025 after a difficult 2024,” he said.

He also praised the unity of the young squad, saying, “Even though we have a very young team, we really did well. There was good harmony and good union.”

Ghana will face Panama in Toronto on 17 June, England in Boston on 23 June, and Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June, aiming to secure a place in the knockout stage.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE