World Cup 2026: No Mohammed Kudus as Ghana names 26-man squad for tournament

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has officially named Ghana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following months of scouting, analysis, and evaluation of players eligible to represent the country at this summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The squad features a blend of experienced internationals and exciting newcomers as Ghana prepares for its latest appearance on football’s biggest stage.

Djiku Ruled Out as Luckassen Earns Call-Up

One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the absence of Alexander Djiku, who misses the tournament after suffering a hamstring injury expected to keep him sidelined for at least six weeks.

His place in the squad goes to Cyprus-based defender Derrick Luckassen, who receives a late call-up ahead of the competition.

Experienced Core Returns

Several players with previous World Cup experience have retained their places in the squad, including Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Gideon Mensah, Baba Abdul Rahman, Alidu Seidu and captain Jordan Ayew.

Their experience is expected to play a crucial role as the Black Stars target a strong campaign in Group L.

Several Players Set for World Cup Debuts

The tournament will also mark a first World Cup appearance for a number of players, including Jerome Opoku, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Abdul Mumin, Benjamin Asare, Joseph Anang, Kwasi Sibo, Augustine Boakye, Caleb Yirenkyi, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Ernest Nuamah, Brandon Thomas-Asante and Prince Kwabena Adu.

Their inclusion signals Queiroz’s willingness to place faith in emerging talent ahead of the global showpiece.

Final Preparations Underway

Before departing for North America, Ghana will face Wales national football team in an international friendly in Cardiff on June 2.

The Black Stars will then continue their preparations in Washington before kicking off their World Cup campaign.

Ghana begin their Group L journey against Panama national football team on June 17 before facing England national football team and Croatia national football team in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most challenging groups.

Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers

• Benjamin Asare
• Lawrence Ati-Zigi
• Joseph Anang

Defenders

• Baba Abdul Rahman
• Gideon Mensah
• Marvin Senaya
• Alidu Seidu
• Abdul Mumin
• Jerome Opoku
• Jonas Adjetey
• Kojo Oppong Peprah
• Derrick Luckassen

Midfielders

• Elisha Owusu
• Thomas Partey
• Kwasi Sibo
• Augustine Boakye
• Caleb Yirenkyi
• Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
• Kamaldeen Sulemana

Forwards

• Christopher Bonsu Baah
• Ernest Nuamah
• Antoine Semenyo
• Brandon Thomas-Asante
• Prince Kwabena Adu
• Inaki Williams
• Jordan Ayew

With a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars, Ghana will be hoping this squad can make a strong impression when the 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway.