Jordan Ayew: Black Stars Must Secure Qualification for the 2026 World Cup

Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has highlighted the critical importance of Ghana securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, especially following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This absence from the continental tournament has created added pressure on Ghana’s national football team to perform well in their World Cup qualification campaign.

Ayew acknowledged the weight of expectations that come with playing for Ghana, understanding that the scrutiny on the team is inevitable. “There’s pressure playing for Ghana,” he shared in an interview with BBC Sport Africa. “We can’t stop people from criticizing us—that’s a part of the game. When results aren’t going well, the manager and the players face the backlash.” Ayew’s comments underline the reality of playing for a nation with such passionate football supporters, where the national team’s performance is often scrutinized intensely.

The 33-year-old forward has been a key figure in Ghana’s qualification efforts for the 2026 World Cup, having already scored four goals in the campaign. His performance includes a standout hat-trick against the Central African Republic in Kumasi last June, which has helped him become Ghana’s top scorer in the qualifiers so far. Only Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet have scored more goals, each with five goals after four rounds of qualification matches.

Jordan Ayew, who now wears the captain’s armband, took over the leadership role from his brother, André Ayew, who was left out of the squad for the current qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. The decision to exclude André Ayew has brought additional focus to Jordan’s leadership, and he is well aware of the responsibilities that come with the captaincy. Despite the challenges, Jordan Ayew has embraced the role and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to qualify for the World Cup.

He firmly believes that Ghana has the quality needed to secure a spot in the tournament. “With the quality we have in the squad, we must qualify for the World Cup,” Ayew asserted. “I hope that in these two upcoming matches, we can show a positive image of ourselves and start turning things around for the better.” Ayew’s optimism comes despite the added pressure from their recent AFCON failure, but his belief in the squad’s potential remains unshaken.

As it stands, Ghana has accumulated nine points in Group I after four matches, positioning themselves third in the group. The Black Stars are set to face Chad at home in Kumasi on Friday before traveling to Madagascar for their next fixture. These upcoming matches are crucial, as Ghana aims to secure vital points that will improve their chances of automatic qualification for the World Cup.

The team’s prospects are bolstered by the presence of several key players, including midfielder Thomas Partey, attacking star Mohammed Kudus, and forward Antoine Semenyo. Ayew is confident that, with these influential figures in the squad, Ghana can secure two crucial victories that will significantly enhance their qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup. The Black Stars have the talent and determination needed to turn their fortunes around and put themselves in a strong position to qualify for the tournament.

Looking ahead, Ayew understands the long road ahead, but he remains optimistic that Ghana’s collective effort will carry them through the qualifying rounds. “We know the road will be tough, but with the right mentality and preparation, we can overcome any challenges that come our way,” he said.

As the qualification process continues, Jordan Ayew’s leadership will play a pivotal role in motivating the team to overcome obstacles and maintain focus on their ultimate goal: securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the support of the passionate Ghanaian fanbase and the team’s talented roster, the Black Stars will be determined to make their mark on the world stage once again.