Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign was significantly impacted by injuries to key players, including Mohammed Kudus, according to assistant coach Roger De Sa. The Black Stars exited the tournament in the Round of 32 after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia on July 4, 2026, capping a challenging run that saw them lose their last three matches.
What happened to Ghana's key players?
Kudus, along with Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, and Abu Francis, missed the tournament due to injuries. Their absence left Ghana without both starting center-backs, a winger, and a midfielder. De Sa explained that the team had to rely on younger, less experienced players, particularly in defense.
How did injuries affect Ghana's World Cup preparations?
The injuries forced Ghana to adjust their preparations and selection process. De Sa admitted that some potential squad members were not getting regular playing time at their clubs, making it difficult to assess their form. "You could travel to watch a player, only to find him on the bench," he said.
What was Ghana's World Cup journey?
Ghana began with a 1-0 win over Panama, followed by a 0-0 draw against England. They lost 2-1 to Croatia in their final group match before the Round of 32 exit. With the World Cup over, Ghana now focuses on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, starting in September.
