High performance coach of the Ghana national football team, John Paintsil, believes the Black Stars have what it takes to defeat the England national football team when the two sides meet at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana will face England in their second Group L fixture of the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking to 3Sports, Paintsil described the upcoming clash as similar to a local derby, noting that several Ghanaian players are based in England and are familiar with the football environment there.
“It will feel like a local derby because many Ghanaian players are based in England and know the environment well,” said the former defender, who represented Ghana at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Despite his confidence about Ghana’s chances against England, Paintsil cautioned that the Croatia national football team would also pose a significant challenge in the group.
He also praised Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, describing him as a disciplined leader capable of guiding the team effectively.
Ghana will open their campaign against the Panama national football team before facing England and Croatia in the remaining group matches.
