Addo urges focus as Ghana draw England and Croatia in demanding World Cup group
Ghana head coach Otto Addo says his side must approach every match with equal focus after the Black Stars were handed a challenging assignment in Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars will face England, Croatia and Panama, a draw that immediately revived memories of the nation’s famous battles with European opposition on the global stage.
England, semi-finalists in 2018 and quarter-finalists in 2022, enter the group as strong favourites, while Croatia remain one of Europe’s most consistent tournament performers.
Panama complete the quartet, offering Ghana a chance to start the tournament positively if they can manage the pressure of an opening fixture against the Central Americans.
Addo, who led Ghana through a steady qualifying campaign, insists his players must avoid placing disproportionate emphasis on any single match.
He believes discipline, psychological preparation and a strong start will be crucial as the Black Stars attempt to progress from a group stacked with pedigree.
“There is no particular game I look forward to (the most) – every game is special,” Addo said.
“I am looking at each game equally and hoping that we have a good start against Panama.
“That would be crucial and it would make the other games a little more relaxed and a little easier for the players psychologically.”
The coach was also quick to highlight the emotional significance of facing England, given the long-standing ties between Ghanaian footballers and the English game.
“It is very important for us that we don’t underrate any team and for sure England is the favourite in the group," the former Ghana itnernational winger said.
"Ghana have a very strong relationship with England, so it is going to be very exciting for a lot of people."
However, he stressed that sentiment cannot distract his side from the wider objective of reaching the knockout stages.
Addo emphasised that the opener against Panama could shape Ghana’s fortunes across the entire tournament.
His final message centred on mentality — warning that underestimating any opponent could be costly.
