Agyemang-Badu Calls for Black Stars to Prioritize 2026 World Cup Qualification
Former Ghanaian midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has highlighted the necessity for the Black Stars to ensure their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. After failing to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghana now faces the critical challenge of staying on track in the World Cup qualifiers. The team recently revived their hopes with back-to-back wins against Mali and the Central African Republic, but crucial matches against Chad and Madagascar await in March. These fixtures are expected to determine whether Ghana can maintain their reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
In a conversation with Citi Sports, Agyemang-Badu, known for his pivotal role in Ghana’s U-20 World Cup victory, expressed the importance of unity within the team and the need to support the Ghana Football Association (GFA). He acknowledged the struggles of the past year, including missing out on both the CHAN and AFCON tournaments, but stressed that the World Cup must remain a top priority. "The year has not been kind to us, but the World Cup is non-negotiable," he stated. He also called on fans and stakeholders to back the GFA’s decisions and efforts, emphasizing that the success of the national team requires collective support. According to Agyemang-Badu, the World Cup offers a unique platform for Ghana to regain its standing on the international stage and inspire pride among its citizens.
Ghana has a strong history in the World Cup, having participated in four editions—2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022—earning recognition for their performance and resilience on football's grandest stage. Missing out on the 2026 tournament would be a major setback for the country’s football ambitions. As the Black Stars prepare for their upcoming qualifiers, the nation is hopeful that the team will overcome recent setbacks and rise to the challenge. With Agyemang-Badu’s rallying call and a renewed focus on collaboration, Ghana has the opportunity to not only qualify but also make a strong impression at the tournament in North America. The journey to redemption begins now, and every effort will be needed to ensure the team achieves this critical goal.
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