2026 World Cup: ‘People don’t think we will do well’ – Jordan Ayew welcomes underdog tag ahead of England clash

Ghana forward Jordan Ayew is setting his sights firmly on a defining moment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Ghana will face England at Gillette Stadium.

The fixture, staged near Boston in the United States, is already being viewed as a pivotal test of Ghana’s resurgence on the global stage. It comes at a time when the Black Stars are attempting to rebuild their reputation after successive early exits at recent tournaments.

Ghana head into their fifth World Cup appearance with history and expectation weighing heavily. Since their debut in 2006, they have experienced both promise and frustration on football’s biggest stage, with their standout moment remaining a quarter-final run in South Africa in 2010.

Across all editions, Ghana’s record stands at five wins, three draws and seven defeats from 15 matches. Yet the ambition remains unchanged: to move beyond the group stage and reclaim a place among the tournament’s elite.

Placed in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, Ghana face a steep challenge if they are to match or surpass their best-ever World Cup achievement.

Ayew embraces familiar English challenge

For Ayew, the meeting with England carries both professional and personal meaning, given his long experience in English football.

“It’s going to be a special game. I’ve been there for 10 years; it’s like my third home because France is my second home,” Ayew told FIFA.com.

“They’ve been good to me. There have been ups and downs, I’ve experienced everything there, and I have really, really enjoyed my time there. I’m still enjoying it, and hopefully there are more years to come.”

Looking ahead to the challenge itself, he struck a defiant tone about Ghana’s prospects.

“We have to prove ourselves and we have to show that we have quality, and we have to be ready for the challenge.

“We all know it’s going to be difficult, but we are ready. Obviously, I know people don’t think that we will do well, so that is good. I like it when people think like that. We will see when we get there.”

Captaincy, responsibility and belief

As one of the leaders within the squad, Ayew also reflected on the weight of captaining his country on the global stage.

“Obviously, it’s an honour and a big responsibility. I just take it calmly and do my best for the country, for my teammates.

“I always put them first and try to do my best for them. For everyone to be happy and for everybody to be ready for each game, prepare them as best as I can and motivate them.”

He added a note of personal philosophy about his approach to football and pressure.

“I take it day by day. I’m just a chilled person, I’m natural, you know. I just deal with things as they come, and that’s how it is.”

Family legacy and chasing more caps

Ayew also spoke about Ghana’s 2010 World Cup memories, when the nation came within touching distance of a historic semi-final, describing the impact it had on the country.

“The vibe, the energy they brought into the country, performing well, was incredible. And to see Ghana happy, and to see people going to work with a smile on their face, there’s nothing better than that.

“And that is what football is all about: emotions. We will try and do our best to give hope, to let people enjoy their days at work. I just want to go there and enjoy the moment.

“Have fun, make the country very proud, make myself proud, and be happy with myself and my teammates.”

On the prospect of surpassing his brother Andre, the most-capped player in Ghana history, Ayew remained grounded.

“I never thought that I would get to where I am today. I just keep on pushing, and keep on working.

“But for me personally, I’d prefer to have six caps and win a trophy. I just keep on playing, enjoying my football and trying to give my best for my country and to make my family proud.

“And to keep striving because I’m blessed, I’m healthy. As long as you’re healthy, that’s the most important thing. Everything is not going to be perfect, but the most important thing is not to give up and to keep pushing.”

Ghana begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18, face England on June 23, before concluding their group fixtures against Croatia on June 28.