Former Ghana international, Augustine Arhinful is confident that the Black Stars can defeat the Three Lions of England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars on Friday, December 5, 2025, were paired in Group L alongside 1996 champion England, 2018 finalist Croatia and the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League winner Panama.
Reacting to the draw, Augustine Arhinful stated that the Black Stars can match the Three Lions “boot for boot” and can compete competitively at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Before the draw was conducted, I granted an interview, and I said I wanted Ghana to meet England.”
“I was even speaking to the UK High Commissioner and told him I wanted us to meet England. He said no, because if they lose to us, his people won’t be happy,” Augustine Arhinful said in an interview with Citi FM.
Despite the strength of the English side, Arhinful believes Ghana can go toe-to-toe with them.
“It’s football. I’ve always felt we can match the English team boot-for-boot. At the end of the day, if you prepare well, your strategy works and a little luck comes your way, you can win any game.”
Ghana will begin the 2026 World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before taking on England on June 23 in Boston, and concluding group play against 2018 finalists Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico.
JE
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