Black Stars Intensify World Cup 2026 Preparations Amid Squad Selection Controversy and Confirmed Appearance Fees

Ghana’s Black Stars are intensifying their final preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marked by key player arrivals in camp and the confirmation of tournament appearance fees. Under the leadership of head coach Carlos Queiroz, the team is currently based in Wales for a pre-tournament training camp, building momentum ahead of a crucial international friendly against Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium. This period of preparation is vital as the technical team narrows down a provisional 28-man list to the final 26-player roster required for the global showpiece. The team is set to compete in Group L, alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, with their first match scheduled for June 17 in Toronto.

On the training pitch at Dragon Park, the squad's intensity surged following the arrival of experienced stars Thomas Partey and Iñaki Williams. Recent sessions have featured 24 players participating in tactical drills and coordination exercises aimed at assessing readiness against European opposition. While there is optimism regarding the inclusion of young talent like Ernest Nuamah—despite lingering fitness concerns—the team will be without the services of Kudus Mohammed due to injury. Frederick Acheampong, a GFA Executive Council member, has praised Queiroz’s strategic selections, noting that the coach has maintained a clear vision for the squad since his initial appointment.

Despite the positive atmosphere in camp, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has faced significant public backlash over its selection process. Critics have labeled the decision to announce an oversized 28-man provisional squad as "unnecessarily complex," suggesting it creates confusion and invites administrative influence. This lack of transparency has sparked debate among fans and football experts who argue for a more straightforward approach to team selection. GFA management, however, defends the process, citing extensive player evaluations and scouting data as the primary drivers behind the current roster.

In tandem with the technical preparations, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has solidified the financial framework for the tournament. Minister Kofi Adams announced that each Black Stars player will receive a $100,000 appearance fee, a figure that has remained consistent since 2010. Despite fluctuations in the strength of the Ghana cedi, the government has maintained this standardized payment to ensure stability. As the team moves toward their final squad announcement on June 1 and the subsequent friendly against Wales, the focus remains on harmonizing the squad's experience and youth to ensure a competitive showing on the world stage.