World Cup 2026: William Troost-Ekong backs Ghana to get result against England

Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has thrown his support behind Ghana ahead of the Black Stars’ crucial Group L clash against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting he wants to see African nations thrive on football’s biggest stage.

Ghana head into Tuesday’s showdown in Boston full of confidence after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the tournament. Highly rated FC Nordsjaelland midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as the hero, scoring deep into stoppage time to hand the Black Stars all three points.

England also made a winning start to their campaign, defeating Croatia 4-2 in an entertaining encounter to move level with Ghana on three points at the top of Group L.

Despite the fierce football rivalry that often exists between Ghana and Nigeria, Troost-Ekong believes the World Cup is a time for African unity and says he hopes Otto Addo’s side can earn a positive result against the Three Lions.

Speaking to ESPN, the retired Super Eagles defender explained that strong performances by African teams help elevate the reputation of football across the continent.

“I would love Ghana to go and do well. I think the beauty of the World Cup, and I think all the teams, even when we’ve been at the World Cup before, we want to see the other African teams do well. I think it’s very important for the continent.”

Troost-Ekong added that while rivalries remain important, there is also mutual respect and admiration among African footballers.

“Besides the rivalry, where we play against each other, often there’s also a lot of love for each other, because we know the players well, and maybe from my perspective now, having retired from the national team, it’s easier to say that.”

The former Watford and PAOK defender believes a strong showing from Ghana, alongside the continent’s other representatives, would send a positive message about the growth and quality of African football.

Ghana qualified impressively for the World Cup, finishing top of their CAF qualifying group with eight wins, one draw and just one defeat. The Black Stars are now aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 2010.

A victory against England would place Carlos Queiroz’s side in an excellent position to secure qualification for the Round of 32, while even a draw would keep their hopes firmly in their own hands heading into the final group match against Croatia.

England remain favourites on paper, but Troost-Ekong’s backing reflects a growing belief across Africa that Ghana are capable of producing another memorable World Cup performance.

With both teams level on points and top spot in Group L at stake, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament’s group phase.