2026 World Cup: Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams boost Black Stars camp ahead of Wales friendlies

Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams have provided a timely boost to Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after linking up with the Black Stars camp in Cardiff ahead of next week’s international friendly against Wales.

The experienced duo arrived on Saturday morning, increasing the number of players in camp to 24 as head coach Carlos Queiroz continues fine-tuning his squad for the crucial warm-up fixture at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday, June 2.

Both players wasted no time settling in, heading straight to Dragon Park for the team’s first training session of the day. Their arrival comes after 22 players had already been working with the technical team since camp opened earlier in the week.

With the World Cup now just weeks away, the presence of Partey and Williams adds quality, leadership and experience to a squad determined to build momentum before heading to North America for the tournament.

Key figures join preparations

Partey returns to the national team setup as one of Ghana’s most influential midfielders, while Williams brings pace, energy and attacking threat to the frontline.

Their inclusion further strengthens a squad that already features captain Jordan Ayew, Ernest Nuamah, Kamal Deen Sulemana, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Thomas-Asante among others.

The current group in Cardiff includes goalkeepers Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang and Solomon Agbasi, alongside defenders Baba Abdul Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Alidu Seidu, Abdul Mumin, Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey.

Midfield options include Elisha Owusu, Kwasi Sibo and Caleb Yirenkyi, while Christopher Bonsu Baah, Prince Kwabena Adu and Paul Reverson are also part of the travelling contingent.

Wales friendly offers final assessment

Tuesday’s encounter against Wales is expected to provide Queiroz with a valuable opportunity to assess his squad against strong European opposition before the World Cup begins.

The match will serve as Ghana’s final major test ahead of a demanding group-stage campaign, with players competing for places in the starting line-up and the coaching staff looking to sharpen tactical plans.

Focus shifts to World Cup challenge

Ghana have been drawn in Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside England, Croatia and Panama in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.

The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17 before taking on England and Croatia in their remaining group fixtures.