Ghana Faces Crucial Test Against England: Key Areas Carlos Queiroz Must Address
Ghana’s Black Stars may have opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over Panama, but the performance exposed several weaknesses that must be addressed ahead of their highly anticipated clash with tournament favourites England.
Despite entering the match as favourites against a Panama side ranked below them, Ghana struggled for long periods and required a late winner from Caleb Yirenkyi to secure all three points. While the victory provided a positive start to the campaign, it also highlighted tactical and personnel issues that head coach Carlos Queiroz must urgently resolve if the Black Stars are to stand any chance against a formidable England side.
With England coming off an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia, the challenge facing Ghana is significant. However, there are several strategic adjustments that could improve the Black Stars’ chances of producing a memorable result.
Solving the Jordan Ayew Puzzle
One of the biggest selection dilemmas facing Queiroz concerns captain Jordan Ayew. The experienced forward remains one of Ghana’s most influential figures, bringing leadership, composure and invaluable tournament experience to the squad.
Ayew’s appearance against Panama saw him join an exclusive group of Ghanaian players to feature in three FIFA World Cup tournaments, underlining his importance to the national team. However, his performance raised concerns, particularly regarding his pace and effectiveness in leading the attack.
Several attacking opportunities were lost due to delayed decision-making and an inability to exploit spaces behind the opposition defence. Against a stronger and more organised England backline, such shortcomings could prove costly.
Rather than deploying Ayew as the main striker, Ghana may benefit from utilizing him in an advanced midfield role. This position would allow him to use his experience, vision and intelligence to connect midfield and attack while creating opportunities for quicker forwards.
A system featuring Ayew operating behind pacey attackers such as Antoine Semenyo, Brandon Thomas-Asante or Abdul Fatawu could provide Ghana with greater attacking balance and improve their ability to exploit England’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Thomas Partey’s Return Could Be Crucial
The anticipated return of Thomas Partey could significantly strengthen Ghana’s midfield against one of the strongest central units in world football.
Against Panama, Ghana’s midfield struggled to maintain control, often finding themselves chasing the game and reacting to opposition movements. England’s midfield trio, spearheaded by Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, possesses the quality to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of matches.
Partey’s presence would provide composure, defensive stability and leadership in the middle of the park. Alongside emerging star Caleb Yirenkyi, Ghana could build a more balanced midfield capable of disrupting England’s rhythm while also initiating attacks.
The partnership would not only offer additional protection to the defence but also create more freedom for attacking players to influence the game higher up the pitch.
Exploiting England’s Defensive Weaknesses
Although England secured victory over Croatia, their defensive performance revealed vulnerabilities that Ghana can target.
The Three Lions looked susceptible in wide areas, particularly when facing quick transitions and direct attacks. Croatia repeatedly found success by stretching England’s defensive structure and attacking the flanks before the defence could reorganise.
This presents an opportunity for Ghana’s pacey attackers. Semenyo’s physicality and direct running, Thomas-Asante’s speed and Abdul Fatawu’s creativity could cause significant problems for England’s full-backs.
Quick counterattacks and aggressive wing play may prove to be Ghana’s most effective route to goal. If the Black Stars can isolate England’s defenders in one-on-one situations, they could create the openings needed to produce a positive result.
Adopting a More Aggressive Approach
One of Ghana’s biggest shortcomings against Panama was their slow start.
For much of the first hour, Panama controlled possession and dictated proceedings, forcing Ghana into a defensive and reactive style of play. It was only after tactical adjustments and substitutions that the Black Stars increased their intensity and began to assert themselves.
Against England, such a cautious approach could be disastrous.
The English side demonstrated vulnerabilities when pressed aggressively by Croatia, particularly in midfield and defensive areas. Ghana must therefore begin the game with high energy, intense pressing and a willingness to challenge England from the opening whistle.
Read alsoGhana Climbs Eight Places in Latest FIFA Rankings Following Historic World Cup Victory Over Panama
Allowing players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and company time and space on the ball could result in severe punishment. Ghana’s objective should be to disrupt England’s rhythm, force mistakes and make the encounter as physically demanding as possible.
Staying Alert From Set Pieces
Another major area of concern will be defending set-piece situations.
England were among the most dangerous teams from dead-ball scenarios during the opening round of matches, creating numerous chances and scoring through Harry Kane from a corner kick.
Ghana cannot afford lapses in concentration when defending corners and free kicks. Whether Lawrence Ati-Zigi or Benjamin Asare starts in goal, defensive organisation and communication will be essential.
Avoiding unnecessary fouls around the penalty area should also be a priority, while defenders must remain disciplined and focused throughout the contest. In the event of a penalty, Ghana’s goalkeepers will need to be fully prepared for Kane’s well-documented techniques and psychological tactics from the spot.
A Defining Moment for the Black Stars
Carlos Queiroz has already acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge ahead, stressing that success at the World Cup comes at a high price and requires sacrifice from every player.
The victory over Panama provided Ghana with momentum, but the encounter against England represents a completely different level of competition. If the Black Stars can make the necessary tactical adjustments, maximise their strengths and maintain discipline throughout the contest, they could give themselves a genuine opportunity to challenge one of the tournament favourites.
The stage is set for a fascinating showdown, and Ghana will be determined to prove that they belong among the world’s elite.
