Samuel Inkoom, the Hearts of Oak defender, has acknowledged the challenging nature of Ghana's group in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana has been placed in Group I alongside Mali, Comoros, Central African Republic, Chad, and Madagascar.
In recent times, the Black Stars have faced difficulties against teams considered to be underdogs. Ghana's disappointing performances in AFCON 2021 and the 2022 World Cup group stages are evidence of this.
Although some may view Group I as an easy group for Ghana to qualify from, Inkoom emphasizes that football has evolved, making it unpredictable to determine the group's qualifiers.
He emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and not underestimating any of the opponents in the group. The group winner secures qualification for the World Cup, and Inkoom acknowledges that it will not be an easy task.
While Inkoom doesn't consider Mali as the biggest opponent in the group, he emphasizes the need to respect all the teams. Having played against Mali before, Inkoom recognizes their strength and the presence of talented players in European leagues, making them a formidable side to face.
In conclusion, Inkoom highlights the challenge Ghana will face in the group, emphasizing the need for preparation and not underestimating any of their opponents.
"The Black Stars have struggled against some of the countries considered as minnows in recent times. Ghana failed to progress beyond the group stage of AFCON 2021 and the 2022 World Cup," he told Citi Sports.
“I think to be honest, someone will just say this [a] group Ghana can qualify [from] without any stress, but I have to be honest with you, football has evolved in such a way that you can’t even predict who will qualify out of the group.”
“You just have to prepare and prepare adequately towards these kinds of group opponents. The group winner qualifies for the World Cup, and I know it is not going to be easy.”
“I will not say Mali is the biggest opponent, because we have to respect everybody in the group. I played against Mali and they had a very strong team [back then]. They are still a difficult side to play against.”
“They have good players playing in Europe, it is not going to be easy for Ghana.”
