Former Asante Kotoko board chairman Herbert Mensah has given a blunt assessment of the Black Stars as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
New head coach Carlos Queiroz has limited time to prepare his squad for their opening Group L game against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, with the final 26-man squad due by June 1.
Speaking to Luv FM, Mensah acknowledged Queiroz’s experience but pointed to his inconsistent World Cup record.
“He does not have a great record at the World Cup, but that does not mean he's not a very accomplished coach,” he said.
Mensah also raised concerns about long-standing issues off the pitch, suggesting administration has often held the team back.
“The Black Stars have seen this through the history of time – poor administration, and yet the players themselves try their hardest to produce something special,” he noted.
He warned that this World Cup could be especially challenging for Ghana, despite the chance to make a strong start.
“I think this time it will be a little bit difficult for them. The balance of where they go in terms of the group means that anything is possible. There’s no reason they can’t win early matches and then strategically plan where they’ll go next. Carlos Queiroz certainly understands that terrain.”
Mensah then questioned whether the team is fully ready, both on and off the pitch.
“Are the players good enough? Have they been well prepared? Are they stable? Are they demoralised by what is going on? What is the leadership team like? How does it really work within the caucus group of the Black Stars? Is the management team okay? There’s a lot of self-examination required.”
As Ghana hopes to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010, Mensah’s comments show that the team needs to think carefully and be honest with itself as the tournament gets closer.
By: Pascal Amoah
