Jordan Ayew Stresses the Importance of Black Stars' World Cup Qualification
Ghanaian striker Jordan Ayew has underscored the necessity for the Black Stars to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, especially after their disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, failed to register a single win during the qualifiers, leading to their elimination from the tournament set to take place in Morocco later this year. Despite this setback, Ayew remains confident that the team can make amends by ensuring they reach the World Cup, which will be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. In an interview with BBC Sport Africa, the Leicester City forward acknowledged the high expectations placed on the team and admitted that criticism is inevitable when results do not go their way. He emphasized that both players and the coaching staff are aware of the scrutiny that comes with representing Ghana and are determined to restore the nation's footballing pride.
Ayew has been instrumental in Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign, scoring four goals, including an impressive hat-trick against the Central African Republic in Kumasi last June. This makes him the team’s top scorer in the qualifiers, trailing only Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet, who have five goals each. His role within the team has become even more significant following his recent appointment as captain, replacing his elder brother André Ayew, who was omitted from the squad for the upcoming matches. While acknowledging the responsibility that comes with leadership, Ayew remains optimistic about Ghana’s chances, stressing that with the talent available in the squad, qualification should be the ultimate goal. He expressed his belief that the team has what it takes to recover from their AFCON disappointment and put on a strong performance in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Currently, Ghana sits third in Group I with nine points from four games, meaning their qualification hopes remain in their hands. The Black Stars are set to face Chad in Kumasi before traveling to Madagascar for their next fixture, and both games will be crucial in determining their path to the World Cup. Ayew has called on his teammates to use these matches as an opportunity to prove their strength and resilience, urging them to play with determination and confidence. He hopes that the team can put on a performance that will regain the trust of the Ghanaian fans, who have been disheartened by recent failures. With the pressure mounting, the Black Stars must now turn their focus toward achieving their ultimate objective—securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and giving Ghanaians something to be proud of once and gain.
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