Ghana’s build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has suffered a significant setback after it was confirmed that defender Mohammed Salisu will miss the tournament due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament sustained earlier this year.
The former Southampton centre back had been a consistent and commanding presence in the Black Stars’ defence and was widely expected to anchor the back line on the world stage.
His absence leaves head coach Otto Addo facing a major challenge as he looks to replace not only Salisu’s defensive qualities but also his leadership at a time when the tournament is fast approaching.
Ghana have been drawn into Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. The group campaign begins on June 17 in Dallas with Panama facing Croatia, before Ghana take on England on June 23 in Boston. The Black Stars will round off their group stage fixtures against Panama on June 27 in New Jersey.
Panama, meanwhile, continue their preparations with two international friendly matches scheduled against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in March. The games form part of their pre-tournament training camp in the United States as they fine-tune plans for the World Cup.
With Salisu ruled out, Ghana now head into the 2026 World Cup without one of their most reliable defensive figures, forcing the Black Stars to rethink their defensive structure as they prepare to face some of the strongest teams in global football.
