Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association, Fred Pappoe, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars ahead of the FIFA World Cup, insisting the team can defy expectations despite their low ranking.
His comments follow Ghana’s drop to 74th in the latest FIFA Coca-Cola rankings, placing the team among the lowest-ranked teams heading into the tournament.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Fred Pappoe stressed that with the right mentality and a well-structured technical approach, the Black Stars have the quality to make a strong impact at the Mundial.
“¶I think we’ll do well. I’m sure this is just a spot on the way. I’m sure we’ll get over it, get a new coach in place.”
“Once we have the players with the right calibre of mind, the right mentality and the right approach, I’m not one who looks down on my team. I’m very hopeful with the array of players we have, I do not have an idea as to what is going to be the final 26.”
“But at the end of the day, if you’re looking at who could possibly be in the 26, it gives me comfort. I don’t think our team is necessarily bad. I do not subscribe to that.”he said.
While the rankings drop may not directly affect qualification, it highlights underlying challenges that require urgent attention, including tactical cohesion, player confidence, and leadership on the pitch.
Ghana’s campaign is set to begin in Toronto on Wednesday, June 17, with a late 23:00 GMT kick-off against Panama.
The Black Stars will then face a stern test against England in a highly anticipated encounter in Boston on Tuesday, June 23 at 20:00 GMT.
They will wrap up their group stage matches against Croatia in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 27, with kick-off scheduled for 22:00 GMT.
